Interactive Exercise System For Reducing The Risk Of Developing And Relieving The Symptoms Of Carpal Tunnel Syndrome.

Abstract

The instant invention is an interactive exercise system that is designed to be used as a preventative means to reduce the risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome (CTS) and to relieve the symptoms of an individual who has developed CTS. More specifically, this system provides feedback to users and occupational therapists to follow recommended motions accurately and to perform diagnosis.

1 . An integrated interactive system designed to be used as a preventative means to reduce the risk of developing Carpal Tunnel Syndrome and to relieve the symptoms of an individual who has developed CTS comprising the following:
 a. a pair of sensor-embedded gloves with at least two sensors in each glove,   b. a means of transmitting data from the sensors to a computer,   c. devices that can translate the motions of a user's hands into a processor and display them on a computer screen, and   d. a corresponding software program to aggregate data and display recommended exercises and motions.   
     
     
         2 . A system as in  claim 1  where at least one of the sensors is located in the palm of the glove. 
     
     
         3 . A method of using the interactive system in  claim 1  comprising the following steps:
 a. recommended motions and exercises, analytical tools, and limits of use and ranges of motion are pre-loaded in to a computer program, 
 b. the user puts on either one or both gloves on his or her hands, 
 c. the computer system is energized, 
 d. the means of transmitting data and the means of translating data are both energized, 
 e. the user performs normal computer functions such as typing on a keyboard and moving a mouse during the course of his or her work, 
 f. the sensors acquire data of the user's actual motion, 
 g. the actual motion data is transmitted to the computer and translated to the computer screen, 
 h. the computer program monitors the frequency and range of motions of the user, 
 i. the computer prompts the user when he or she approaches pre-set limits of usage and suggests exercises for the user to employ in order to mitigate the effects of carpal tunnel syndrome, and 
 j. the user performs the exercises and then continues with work.