FlexCare

What it does

FlexCare is a knee treatment kit for knee diseases. It facilitates treatment and provides easy access to physical therapy. The kit combines stabilization, cold therapy and electrotherapy methods, under the supervision of doctors and physiotherapists.

Your inspiration

The FlexCare Knee Treatment Kit project emerged from a personal experience that I observed. In the summer of 2023, a close acquaintance underwent serious knee surgery and required physical therapy sessions. Due to the location of their home and the problematic condition of the knee ,this situation resulted in significant time loss and difficulty. After observing this process, I began identified common treatment methods used for knee treatments and combine them into a single kit. The purpose was to make the treatment process more accessible for patients and provide a treatment while keep in touch with the doctors.

How it works

The FlexCare Knee Treatment kit integrates three main treatments: stabilization, cryotherapy, and electrotherapy. The stabilization component includes a brace with an inflatable system around the patella and lateral ligaments, customizable via a built-in mechanism and ROM hinge system adjusted by healthcare professionals. For cryotherapy, a brace houses a Peltier system that cools the skin-contact area while maintaining upper part warmth. Thanks to the control device patient can start the treatment. A lithium battery powers it, needing recharge after each 15-20 minute session. Electrotherapy involves an electrode placement sheet, electrodes, cables, and a device. Professionals set electrodes as per patient needs; riveted surfaces secure them via the sheet. Cables connect to the device with preloaded parameters, allowing patient-controlled adjustments under supervision. Pins fix electrode positions post-session, simplifying future setups.

Design process

The Flexcare Knee Treatment Kit aims to integrate multiple treatment methods. Initially, I attempted to combine all treatments into one brace, but experts advised against it. Instead, I developed separate elements for the kit. I made mockups using various materials and settled on neoprene for its suitability. In the cryotherapy section, this treatment method was provided with cold gel product in the market. While I was searching for different solutions to make this more practical, I found the Peltier system. Since it had to be compatible with the knee form, I started searching flexible peltier models and decided to use it. For electrotherapy, at first I designed a system with fixed electrodes. Recognizing varying electrode placements among patients, I devised an electrode placement sheet with placement pins for easier adjustment. Unlike typical TENS devices, a doctor-controlled interface simplifies therapy customization. The kit integrates cold therapy and electrotherapy controlling system into a single device, enhancing patient treatment ease.

How it is different

FlexCare Knee Treatment kit is a product that combines three different treatments, which sets it apart from other products in the market. While other products may combine multiple treatment modalities, none offer stabilization, cryotherapy, and electrotherapy all in one. For cryotherapy, conventional products in the market typically use cold gel packs, whereas this product utilizes an innovative peltier system. In terms of electrotherapy, the placement solution provided is not available in other market products, and the telehealth feature allows doctors to remotely monitor the patient's treatment process, making it easier for the patient.

Future plans

I would like to implement this project in the future after conducting feasibility tests and identifying areas for improvement. If I can develop and manufacture this product, I believe it could greatly assist patients in the treatment of knee diseases. I hope to facilitate this process by providing the product to patients at their homes and in hospitals, making the treatment easier for them.

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