RehabAngel®

RehabAngel®

• 13 September 2011

Introduction

Plantar fasciitis and rehabilitation following injury are only two of a number of reasons why patients may need to perform exercises on their legs and ankles.

The Problem

A number of devices exist on the market for exercising the lower limbs. However, many do not meet the required infection control standards and they are not very flexible.

The Solution

The RehabAngel^® is a rehabilitation device that allows allied health professionals and clinicians to prescribe a range of graduated none, partial and full weight bearing exercises, targeting specific muscle groups in the legs.

The RehabAngel^® device provides for greater ankle and foot stability whilst simultaneously strengthening the lower leg muscles. This should reduce the number of injuries experienced by athletes and sports people when undertaking normal exercises. Importantly the device speeds up the rehabilitation in a more controlled manner than any other type of device currently on the market.

The Process

The device was developed by Neil Frame, a podiatrist working at Central and Eastern Cheshire Primary Care Trust. Neil approached TrusTECH when he had received interest in his device from medtech company Medical Devices Technology International (MDTi). After assessing the market, TrusTECH awarded Neil’s PCT a Pathfinder Development Fund Award to carry out some further development of the device, have it tested at the University of Central Lancashire, and pay for the registration of the trademark and designs.

Once this work was complete, TrusTECH then negotiated a licence with MDTi on behalf of the PCT, so that the PCT will receive a royalty on any sales of the device.

The device was launched at the Chartered Society of Physiotherapy conference inLiverpoolin October 2010 and was demonstrated by Olympic triathlete Vanessa Raw.

Where can I get one?

The device can be purchased from MDTi and via a number of distributors. For further information please visit: www.mdti.co.uk.

RehabAngel Case Study 16 04 2012