Brief Session Description : Explore how wearable technologies are transforming stroke rehabilitation in this interactive session. Presenters will trace the evolution of wearable devices from traditional exoskeletons to flexible, soft robotic systems designed for home-based recovery. Participants will gain insight into how engineering, human–computer interaction, and clinical science intersect to create patient-centered rehabilitation tools. The session features the KnitDema device (a soft robotic textile for hand edema mobilization) and highlights future directions for integrating evidence-based, accessible wearable solutions into neurorehabilitation practice. Ideal for clinicians, researchers, and engineers interested in innovation and interdisciplinary collaboration.
COI Unless noted below there are none. Joan Stilling, MD – Disclosed research role and pending intellectual property Michael W. O'Dell, MD – Disclosed advisory committee role (TOXNET / Merz)
Session Objectives:
1. Assess the role of home-based wearable devices in stroke rehabilitation.
2. Examine the field of soft-robotics and possible applications in rehabilitation medicine.
3. Develop an approach for cross-discipline collaboration.
4. Evaluate and experience using a novel soft-robotic device (KnitDema).
CanMEDS: Medical Expert. Health Advocate. Scholar.
