Sensitize

What it does

Sensitive is a aid kit for medical use, for the assistance of rehabilitation of facial paralysis. It has been developed according to the rehabilitation ETC method.

Your inspiration

Bell's paralysis is the most common form of facial paralysis, which causes the inability to control the muscles of the face. ETC method is the most used methodology used in the recovery of the expressive function of the face. At present, the therapeutic tools used in rehabilitation are self-produced by therapists and consequently are not existing on the market. They have a reduced attention on ergonomics, hygiene and deteriorating materials. The project started with the need to better the rehabilitation of patients through the design of devices that translate into industrial products with the knowledge of scientific research.

How it works

Sensitive is a medical kit that consist of five sets of tools which are differentiated by color. Each set has been studied to work on one or more specific parts of the face such as: skin, lips, cheeks and tongue. Each set is composed of a handle and heads of different shapes, textures, sizes, and materials. The therapist through the use of these tools, treats the areas of the face affected by the pathology to recover perception, sensitivity and movement. The therapy consists of two steps, and the patient keeps his/her eyes closed for both. The first phase is the preparation, where the therapist places the tool on the affected area as he tells the patient the number of the tool being used. The second phase the therapist places the tool on the patient (in no specific order) and the patient is to indicate with his/her hand the number of tool head which is being used.

Design process

Initially, I studied this pathology and the latest rehabilitation techniques with the help of physiotherapists, doctors and professional experts. After confronting the problems with the self-produced tools of the therapists, I redesigned the tools and created a kit for medical use. During the design project I received feedback from therapists which allowed me to design more consciously and effectively. Finally, I have developed functional prototypes that can be tested at specialized centers and is ready for the nexst stage.

How it is different

The development of this kit will allow tools designed to be sold on the market at a reduced cost. With safety logic, ergonomics, hygiene, standardization and durability. The marketing of the kit will allow better rehabilitation for patient. Having standardized tools permits feedback, allowing science to progress quickly.

Future plans

The next step is to test the kit in specialized rehabilitation centers and then find an investor or producer to make it marketable.

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