Wearable dummy to simulate equinovarus for training of physical therapists

Abstract

It is indispensable for physical therapists in training to experience various symptoms during their period of education; however, such chances are limited in educational institutions. We developed a prototype of a wearable dummy-robot system to simulate equinovarus, which is a typical disorder of the foot caused by stroke, to enhance the training of physical therapists (PTs). This wearable dummy system makes it possible to simulate joint disorders, while allowing the trainees to learn about the complex joint movements of humans, such as those observed in human feet. The dummy system deforms the foot of a healthy wearer using a wire mechanism so that the resultant foot posture and resistance force required for therapeutic operations resemble those of typical equinovarus patients. The resistance forces felt by the trainees can be tuned by changing the endpoint of the wire. From sensory evaluations involving PTs, it was concluded that with potential future improvements, the dummy simulator will become an effective training tool to aid physical therapy students.