KGMU Doctors Create Patented Assistive Device for Foot Drop Patients
In a significant medical advancement, doctors at King George's Medical University (KGMU) in Lucknow have developed a patented below-the-knee assistive device specifically designed to alleviate the walking difficulties faced by individuals suffering from foot drop. This innovative device, which helps improve balance during walking, was created at the School of International Biodesign Synergising Healthcare Innovation and Entrepreneurship (SIB SHINE) at KGMU.
Understanding Foot Drop and Its Challenges
Foot drop is a medical condition resulting from nerve or muscle damage that prevents a person from lifting the front part of their foot. This impairment leads to dragging of the feet, severely affecting balance, mobility, and overall independence. Patients with foot drop often struggle with daily activities and face an increased risk of falls, which can further compromise their health and quality of life.
How the KGMU Device Works
The newly developed assistive device functions by positioning the foot correctly, thereby enabling safer and more normal walking patterns. By providing mechanical support, it reduces the strain on affected muscles and nerves, allowing users to walk with greater stability and confidence.
KGMU Vice-Chancellor Prof Soniya Nityanand extended her congratulations to the development team, praising the innovation for its focus on translating clinical needs into practical solutions that directly benefit patients. She emphasized the importance of such initiatives in enhancing healthcare outcomes and patient well-being.
Development Timeline and Key Contributors
The project to create this device began in 2022 under the auspices of the Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation (PMR) department at KGMU. The design was spearheaded by Kushagra Asthana and Prithu Prasad, founders of Biostim Innovations, who collaborated closely with medical experts to ensure the device's efficacy and usability.
Clinical guidance for the project was provided by Prof Anil Gupta, head of the PMR department, and Dr Ganesh Kumar, who offered valuable insights into patient needs and medical requirements. Engineering support was contributed by Dr Arjun Ramakrishnan from the Indian Institute of Technology (IIT) Kanpur, ensuring the device's technical robustness and functionality.
Impact and Benefits of the Patented Device
According to Prof Anil Gupta, this patented device significantly reduces the risk of falls and improves confidence among patients, particularly those recovering from neurological and nerve-related conditions. He highlighted that the innovation not only addresses immediate mobility issues but also contributes to long-term rehabilitation and independence for individuals affected by foot drop.
The development of this assistive device marks a crucial step forward in medical technology, offering a practical solution to a common yet debilitating condition. It underscores KGMU's commitment to fostering healthcare innovations that bridge the gap between clinical research and patient care, ultimately improving lives through science and engineering.
