Hand Brace with Infrared Heating and Blood Perfusion Monitoring System

Thermotherapy is often used as an adjunctive treatment for subacute musculoskeletal injuries. It has been proven effective in accelerating the recovery of injured tissues, pain control, and improving tissue flexibility. However, hot packing is potentially risky for the elderly or those suffering from sensory impairment. We invented a safe and efficient device to facilitate treatment outcomes and ensure user safety. 2 circuit patches were inserted into the custom-made hand brace volarly and dorsally. The heating and monitoring system was driven by a controller, attached to the brace. The heating temperature was set under 45°C. The monitored parameters were total hemoglobin (HbT) concentrations and tissue oxygen saturation (StO2). Through the controller, therapists checked blood perfusion status and applied for adequate training programs. After 4 times wearing tests, the detected data of HbT and StO2 improved on average by about 1.03% and 2.26%. This invented innovative device was effective to musculoskeletal injured patients. Due to the temperature-controlled system, patient safety was properly ensured, too. The device was proved to be an excellent treating method for rehabilitative specialists and useful to improve tissue recovery. The test result seemed feasible, while the further test is needed for more health and sub-health participants.