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Labyrsense

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Photo by Alexandra Rieger

Alexandra Rieger

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Introducing the Labyrsense, the rehabilitative labyrinth with sensory feedback. Underpinned by early research explorations with MGH, the Labyrsense is a reinvention of a traditional medical intervention allowing for increased efficacy. 

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Alexandra Rieger 2020

Motor function recovery is an ongoing challenge for patients who have experienced traumatic health incidences such as strokes, TBI’s or neuropathy from nerve damage. The Labyrsense provides cross modal auditory feedback. 

When rehabilitative therapy is required, it is vital that patients maintain their exercises from home (especially in these pandemic-effected times). Studies by researchers (such Janata et al.) show there is a stronger likelihood of brain preservation in the audio cortex regions. 

This device triggers a cognitive bridge over affected motor-cortex brain regions to recover fine motor connectivity. 

The auditory musical sounds remain congruent as long as a patient is completing the intended exercise. When the device recognises a tactile slip,  dissonant tones are introduced alerting patients and/or practitioners and helping to assess and improve coordination. 

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Alexandra Rieger 2020

Unlike traditional rehabilitative hand mazes which are static, 2D objects, the labyrsense is active and responsive, providing direct auditory feedback to patients and vital data to practitioners. The internal system network was built to connect via usb to the computer of the patient or clinician allowing for progress documentation even via tele-health appointments.This feature is essential, especially given the increase of virus-related strokes in the COVID-19 aftermath and the importance of early, effective intervention.

Copyright

Alexandra Rieger 2020