Contactless Multi-Sensor Solution for E-Treatment of Musculoskeletal Disorders

The treatment of Musculoskeletal Disorders requires physical exercises to be executed regularly and correctly. This paper presents a technological solution to support this therapy consisting of on-body sensors and a supporting platform that captures and forwards the data automatically. We implemented wireless communication and charging in the sensor module. The wireless functionality enhances patient’s comfort during movements and allows for easy and hygienic maintenance. Validation in a real-life case has demonstrated the suitability of the solution to monitor treatment remotely. Furthermore, it was shown to be easy-to-use by non-technical experts. The sensor has an autonomy of 20 hours, which contributes to its user friendliness. We explain and share the designs that have been realized with low cost IoT technologies including Micro-Electro-Mechanical System sensors, low power wireless connectivity and microcontrollers. The contactless multi-sensor solution can be broadly adopted both in medical cabinets and for remote treatment. The latter is of specific interest when the patient is far from the therapist, encounters mobility problems, or when safe distancing is needed.