VARIABLE WEIGHT UNITS, COMPUTING DEVICE KIT APPLICATIONS, AND METHOD OF USE

Abstract

The present invention is generally directed to systems and methods that enable a therapist to develop a therapeutic exercise for a patient. In one embodiment, a position tracking sensor is used by a patient, the movement of which can be recorded by an electronic computing device. The electronic computing device records the position tracking sensor movement as the therapist directs the patient to make a particular physical movement. The collected data enables the therapist to establish a range of motion for the patient and an exercise to enable the patient to increase the range of motion. The systems and methods then continue to monitor patient progress.

Description

CROSS-REFERENCE TO RELATED APPLICATION

[0001] This application is related to U.S. patent application Ser. No. 15/244,908, entitled "ERGONOMIC HELD WEIGHT UNITS, RELATED COMPUTING DEVICE APPLICATIONS, AND METHOD OF USE" filed Aug. 23, 2016, which is hereby incorporated in its entirety by reference.

BACKGROUND OF THE INVENTION

[0002] Much in the way normal physical activity complements structured exercise in maintaining a healthy and active lifestyle, daily use of injured or affected limbs, in addition to intensive physical therapy sessions, is critical to rehabilitation outcomes. The integration of weighted limbs, particularly with light weight, during therapeutic movements and the monitoring of these movements with smart devices is a growing area of interest in physical therapy.

[0003] Often doctors, physical therapists, care givers, family and even friends are tasked with assisting those injured or affected by a physical or mental impairment, disability, or both, with daily rehabilitative therapy. In addition to those assisting with the recovery of an injured or effected person, the afflicted individual is often tasked with the burden of performing daily therapeutic tasks or prescribed movements on their own and often unsupervised.

[0004] "It is estimated that 9 million Americans seek new treatment for some form of physical therapy each year, and there are an estimated 27 million more Americans that don't seek treatment for an injury that could benefit from some form of physical therapy. There are 209,690 licensed physical therapists in the United States," Bureau of Labor Statistics, Occupational Employment and Wages, May 2015. This statistic represents a 43 to 1 ratio of new patients to therapists. "It is also estimated that only 30% of the 9 million individuals complete or use all the allotted physical therapy sessions, while 22.2% of total patients treated have a reoccurring injury within 1 year after treatment has ended." A.P.T.A., American Physical Therapy Association.

[0005] "There is a high demand for physical therapists in the workforce. Per the Bureau of Labor Statistics, employment of physical therapists is expected to grow by 36 percent from 2014 to 2024, much faster than the average for all occupations. While demand for physical therapists varies by geographical region and area of practice, the unemployment rates are low across the country. The need for physical therapists is expected to remain strong into the foreseeable future as the US population ages and the demand for physical therapy services grows." A.P.T.A.

[0006] While the demand for physical therapists is on the rise in the United States, there is an alarming increase in unpaid or denied claims. By 2015 it was estimated that 8.2% of all physical therapy claims went unpaid or were denied. This percentage has been increasing on average by 4.4% each year. If left unchanged, unpaid claims could reach 15% by 2030. The highest allegation category percentages for unpaid or denied claims are: Improper Performance of Manual Therapy 14.0%, Failure to Supervise or Monitor 15.9%, Improper Performance of a Physical Agent 17.4%, and most notably Improper Performance Using Therapeutic Exercise 26.6%, HCPSO (Health Care Providers Service Organization).

[0007] In addition to the general population's injuries which normally result from physical stress, strain, or accident, there is a large population of patients that suffer from mental or physical disabilities that need long term care and intense physical therapy. Examples of the diseases which require a high level of physical therapy are: Cerebral Palsy, Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis, Multiple Sclerosis, Muscular Dystrophy, Parkinson's Disease, and Alzheimer's Disease. People suffering from these diseases, as well as the general injured population, may benefit from a system comprised of: a tracking or monitoring device, a computing device or processing chip, and a digital touch screen unit or tablet coupled with varying light weight units, resistance bands, poles, or other physical therapy tools. Such a system would be offered together as a kit or kits designed to treat various injuries or disabilities. The system could be used as an alternative method for measuring range of motion, creating therapeutic movements and or exercise routines, and the tracking of exercise and performance daily. Combining physical tools with tracking technology could possibly be a solution to above stated issues within the physical therapy industry.

[0008] Range of motion (ROM) examinations are important clinical parameters used in diagnosing a patient's physical impairment or lack of mobility caused by stress, injury, or a physical or mental disability. The goniometer is the most common method employed to measure joint angles when determining patient ROM; however, it has several limitations with respect to different therapists obtaining identical and precise measurements. The goniometer is sometimes difficult to position and maintain the arm locations along the bones of the segments throughout the measurement, and the axis of rotation is not always clear, especially for complex joint movements. Slight variations in the positioning of the goniometer can lead to a few degrees of angle variation from the patient's true ROM. When determining a patient's physical wellbeing, it is always best to have the most accurate ROM possible in conjunction with other patient criteria such as pain levels, stiffness, strength, coordination, balance, muscle performance, posture, motor function, and respiration. Identifying and documenting key physical attributes for each patient is critical in providing the best path of care possible for the patient's recovery. It also takes 2 people to perform a goniometer test, the therapist and the patient. This makes it impossible to test ROM without having the therapist or another skilled individual present with the patient. It would be most advantageous to have a system of tracking and monitoring ROM that could be performed with a sensor or tracking system and which did not require the therapist or other individual to be present. Tracking ROM through the use of a goniometer is also time consuming and adds to the duration of the physical therapy session; therefore, a system that is constantly tracking ROM in conjunction with physical movement would give constant feedback, data, and results without adding time to the rehabilitation process. The data generated by the system could be reviewed remotely by the therapist and changes to the patient's physical therapy routine could be made by simply updating the patient's routine online and pushing it out to the patient's instruction feature on the tablet.

[0009] Researchers and therapists are using technology and its benefits to treat those with physical and mental disabilities. Virtual Range of Motion (VROM) and Virtual Reality Therapy (VRT) are not new, but they are being utilized and brought to patients in a new way. VROM is the technique of using digital photography coupled with scanning software to identify a patient range of motion. VROM is considered by many, including the American Medical Association, as a reliable method for compiling accurate data points to base physical therapy treatment. VRT previously consisted of exercise equipment treadmills, elliptical machines, or other motion assisted devices coupled with a video screen typically designed to provide data such as heart rate, intensity, and time based performance, as well as several different forms of distractions including: performance bars, laps completed, various characters performing an exercise, and animations of activity or exercise in familiar surroundings. An example of this might be an individual on a rowing machine watching a screen with a man rowing a boat down a river with objects such as trees or ducks passing by. These VRT distraction methods are now being expanded into video gaming that is often not seen as a form of physical therapy at all, especially with children. The benefits of using VRT in rehabilitation, recovery, and therapeutic treatment of disabilities has been well documented to help with the following four categories of treatment: movement variability, therapeutic relevance, monitoring feedback, and enjoyment and motivation. Combining both VROM and VRT in one comprehensive therapeutic system would be most advantageous when identifying a patient's ability to perform therapeutic movements and managing ongoing therapeutic techniques and care.

[0010] Therefore, it would be most advantageous to have a system or kit comprised of a computing device, a tablet or touch screen digital display with a digital camera, a tracking or monitoring device, and varying therapeutic tools. This complete system or varying components of it targeting specific injuries or disabilities would offer tools that can identify VROM, set up therapeutic movements or routines with resistance, as well as monitor, track, and upload progress and compliance of patients to a therapist and or data base via the internet, wireless or wired connection. This kit or system can be used for traditional therapy as well as with VRT. Such a system would also be a transparent way for healthcare companies and physical therapists to work together during the evaluation process, during rehabilitation, and at the end of treatment.

SUMMARY OF THE INVENTION

[0011] Provided herein are embodiments of a therapeutic medical device kit including: systems, therapy tools, tracking devices, and a communication touch screen device or tablet. Additionally, provided herein are embodiments about the manufacture and use of the medical device kit.

[0012] Continuous technological advances in integrated circuits, wireless communication, and sensors enable development of miniature systems with non-invasive tracking sensors that monitor body movements and communicate wirelessly with a tablet or touch screen device in real time and subsequently transfer data through the Internet to a medical database server and or to caregivers including physical therapists, nurses, doctors or other medical professionals via email or through other notifications.

[0013] The motion system includes but is not limited to a Micro-Processing Unit and Data Logger (MPU, DL), a tracking sensor consisting of a multiple dimensional gyroscope, a multi axis accelerometer, and a digital motion processor capable of transmitting data wirelessly through radio paring of the tracking sensor to the touch screen display unit or tablet. Such sensors are readily available from various manufacturers and can be fitted or custom made into wearable functional motion tracking devices or can be inserted into therapy tools, or both.

[0014] Manufacturers and part number examples are: MPU-9250 by InvenSense, MTi 1 Series by XSENS, and the Meta Motion Series by Mbient Lab. Data generated by the tracking device is fed to a wireless transceiver and sent to the data logger unit housed within the touch screen display unit or tablet. A small radio modem is used as the wireless transceiver and has a range up to 30 meters indoors via the chip antenna. Upon receiving the measurement data from the wireless interface, the transceiver forwards the data directly to the microcontroller for processing. The processed data then serve as the basis for the calculations and software development involved in the characterization of movements. The analysis of the data allows possible characterization of human therapeutic movements and exercises such as: internal rotation of the arm, elbow flexion, elbow extension, and internal and external rotation of the arm. Each therapeutic movement is then stored on a memory card and logged into the system as part of an exercise routine. The ability to recall the patient's own recorded movements and track it against future motion is a critical component of the present invention.

[0015] The ability to track ROM and set up a series of therapeutic movements based on data generated by the wearing of tracking sensors is an advancement in patient care. Patients will have their own physical therapy exercises or routines created from their VROM derived from the tracking sensors and through digital photography of their body. In addition to creating a baseline for therapeutic movements, the tracking sensors will also identify when the patient's body is recovering or failing and when the patient's range of motion increases or decreases. If the patient successfully completes the prescribed therapeutic movements, the software may identify a potential increase in intensity or range of motion goal and notify the caregiver or therapist for approval. The caregiver or therapist may approve or reject the next level of therapeutic movements or intensity in real time. This system establishes a simple and easy line of communication between the patient and caregiver. If for some reason the patient is experiencing a negative reaction to the therapy, shows signs of a decreasing ROM, or the patient is exhibiting a slower than expected recovery time, both the patient and therapist is notified immediately. This will trigger an office visit for further evaluation by the therapist or caregiver. Receiving immediate feedback is an incredible tool not only to motivate individuals on the correct path to recovery but to also notify individuals and their caregivers if something is going wrong with the treatment.

[0016] Another embodiment of the present invention is to eliminate the testing and evaluating of patients with a goniometer. By using the tracking system or sensors coupled with the technique of using VROM from digital photographs of the patient, the system will produce a more accurate initial assessment of the patient's therapeutic needs as well as provide ongoing daily tracking of the patient's ROM and recovery in real time. Patients can also see their performance daily and receive updates or notes of encouragement from their caregivers or therapists based on their individual performance. This system will save the healthcare system money by increasing the effectiveness of in home therapy while providing a better level of care for the patient.

[0017] The therapy tools offered within the kit can be but are not limited to hand held weight units, stretch or resistance bands, an expandable pole, and variable weighted straps or wraps. The hand-held weight units are comprised of either lightweight interlocking units or solid weight units. Both these weight options are coupled with a system of tracking and computing devices for identifying, teaching, monitoring, and reviewing therapeutic movements. As previously noted, the light weight increment unit may be a unique shape of varying materials that is palm centered and limited to the circumference of the hand or it may be comprised of a more traditional dumbbell shape; however, both will have a center space or gap within for the placement of a removable tracking system or sensor. In addition to traditional shapes, there may be additional benefits in having a center weight unit and grip with the option of attaching weights at each end to increase weight increments. This is advantageous in a kit format as one weight unit may be expanded into several weight units without the need of supplying individual dumbbells or weights for each unit desired. For example, if the therapist determines the patient will need light weights ranging from 1-5 pounds during their treatment, it would be more efficient to provide weight segments that when added together reach the desired weight increment versus supplying 5 individual weight units of a solid weight. This may cut the weights provided within the kit itself down from 15 pounds (1-1 pound, 1-2 pound, 1-3 pound, 1-4 pound, and 1-5 pound) to 6 pounds (1-1 pound center grip, 1-1 pound segment, 2-2 pound segments). This may also be advantageous as adding weight to only one or both sides of the center weight unit during certain functional movements gives the patient greater resistance options. Weight units may be either held directly in the hand or aided by means of a glove or hand strap in conjunction with the tracking device. The glove or strap is primarily used for ease of applying such weight units to the hand for use during therapeutic movements, especially if the patient doesn't have complete control of their own grip or range of motion of the hand.

[0018] Applying or holding light ergonomic weights during prescribed physical movement is an understood and accepted way of increasing blood flow to damaged areas of the upper body, repairing torn or damaged ligaments and tendons, and slowly increasing muscle performance back to a state of normalcy or as close to it as possible. In cases of upper arm or lower body therapy, wrist, ankle, arm, or leg straps or wraps with adjustable weight increments may be used in conjunction with the same removable tracking device.

[0019] The preferred embodiment of the present invention allows for a therapist to set up a base line VROM for each patient and the specific injury by using the digital camera and software system or the tracking and monitoring device or both. After a short setup and login process by which the therapist identifies the user of the device by several options including but not limited to: name, healthcare provider, policy number, age, sex, weight, contact information, and injury the therapist can begin to setup the prescribed therapeutic movements by following the basic steps outlined below. These steps are not to limit the scope of the invention in any way, but rather to identify how the device can be used with patients as a general guide. Additional steps or processes may be added at any time within the scope of the invention.

[0020] Step 1 would include turning on the tracking features and monitoring device to identify the current baseline ROM of the patient.

[0021] Step 2 would include assisting the patient with the desired therapeutic movement or motion at least 3 times, as recommended by the American Medical Association, to identify the patient's VROM.

[0022] Step 3 would include identifying the patient's therapeutic options based on his/her own limitations and treatment plan.

[0023] Step 4 would include assisting the patient, 3 times as recommended by the AMA, in performing and tracking each of the prescribed physical movements that make up the treatment plan while the patient is holding or is being assisted in holding the tracking device at the appropriate location on the body.

[0024] Step 5 would include the therapist adding number of repetitions and weight increments or resistance to each prescribed movement in the treatment plan. In cases where other therapeutic instruments are better suited for the exercises, the movement may still be recorded and added to the routine. An example would be the use of stretch or resistance bands with upper body or lower body movement. The sensor would be held either by the band itself or by the glove, strap or wrap.

[0025] Step 6 would include the patient completing one round of each exercise within the physical therapy treatment plan in the presence of the therapist to ensure the patient has a working understanding of the prescribed physical therapy motions as well as an understanding of how to operate the monitoring device and digital display unit or touch screen unit.

[0026] After the patient understands her/his current VROM and the prescribed physical therapy movements required in the treatment plan, the entire kit can be loaned to the patient for use both at home and in an office setting. The patient will be required to use the monitoring device and the prescribed weight increment daily to track physical therapy performance, compliance, and ensure that the patient is performing the correct movement with the held weight. The data generated daily will be transmitted to the therapist via the internet through a wireless internet connection, ensuring that the therapist is in constant contact with the patient. The system may also be equipped with text notification to a therapist's cell phone if desired.

[0027] Patients may also select a tutorial screen where they can review the correct prescribed motion, number of repetitions, and weight or resistance increment if needed. This is particularly beneficial with patients who have a difficult time remembering the correct therapeutic motions, routine, or weight increment per exercises. It is possible that depending on the exercise or motion, a therapist may have different weight increments or resistance across a grouping of exercises. Additionally, the device may signal the user with a beep or alarm noise from the tablet to identify if the patient has failed to perform the therapeutic movement in the prescribed way. If this occurs, patients will be asked to take part in a virtual tutorial in which they can see the prescribed motion by viewing a representation of their own body part that was recorded earlier. The prescribed motion and actual movements can be shown in differing colors on the screen so patients can clearly see the desired motion and their own movements side by side when following along in the learning process. This learning review can be repeated as many times as necessary to achieve the correct therapeutic movement intended by the therapist, doctor, or caregiver.

[0028] It is critical to have the same tracking or monitoring system create both the baseline and the prescribed range of motion for each patient so he/she may gain confidence and acceptance of performing the therapy outside of the physical therapy office. Although injuries may be the same or medically identical, each patient will have varying range of motion, flexibility, strength, endurance, balance, muscle elasticity, recovery time, and confidence level. The ability to monitor and receive feedback daily is a huge leap forward in developing an at home or in office prescribed therapeutic routine for patients recovering from injury. The system is also designed as a virtual coach identifying a range or path of increased mobility. The ability to identify in real time when the patient is exceeding their current range of motion may be very advantageous in motivating the user to continue to pursue their rehabilitation towards recovery. The ability for a physical therapist to review daily performance in just a few seconds and without physically seeing or evaluating the patient is truly an advancement. If needed, the therapist may decrease or increase the intensity of the therapy by raising or lowering the number of repetitions or weight increments and or increase or decrease the range of motion of the exercise by simply updating the device remotely. The therapist may also be able to monitor a more intensive level of physical therapy including altering levels of intensities by day or exercise if desired. Creating custom interval recovery sessions for professional athletes or individuals require a more aggressive form or therapy.

[0029] The system is designed to be travel friendly and offer the most versatile and simplistic solution to physical therapy while on the go; however, if for so some reason the patient needs to take a few days off from their prescribed rehabilitation, there will be a feature to notify the therapist of the event so they can respond with the appropriate course of action based on the delay in therapy.

[0030] This system may also help reduce the number of unpaid claims by healthcare companies or prevent fraud by the individual or therapist based on the data generated by the system. All the patient's therapeutic movements will be recorded and kept in a data base for review at any time to answer questions regarding progress, compliance, effectiveness of therapeutic movements, responsiveness of therapist, list of therapeutic tools used with movement, and any other key category chosen by the healthcare provider to evaluate service and payment of claims.

[0031] In addition to all the benefits of using the tracking device (gyroscope and accelerator system) to identify a baseline and to track therapeutic movements in real time and transmit them to a tablet or touchscreen display, there is a great benefit to using the tracking device to identify a baseline of motions with regards to therapeutic movements of a patient, particularly a child patient, and transfer the data to a video game as actions within the game. Each child's or individual's own range of motion can be measured and used during the setup feature of the game to identify which movements will be used within the gaming environment as actions. For example, a child might not be able to adequately move their arms in a circular motion to indicate steering a car in a video game environment, but the child may be able to move their arm right and left or up and down adequately enough to register as steering the car right or left or increasing or decreasing car speed by motioning the hands up or down. The addition of hand weights may be added to increase the intensity of any movement, creating light resistance to the desired therapeutic movements within a video game environment. The goal is to identify the potential range of motion, desired strength, improved balance, and greater mobility of the patient and to develop a progression of therapeutic movements to reach each goal over time.

[0032] In addition to a routine plan of exercises or motions, the sensor may be carried in the hand by being inserted into the hand weight or secured by a hand strap or wrist strap during exercise such as walking or running as previously noted to expand the physical therapy into activity tracking.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

[0033] The details of the subject matter set forth herein, both as to its structure and operation, may be apparent by study of the accompanying figures, in which like reference numerals refer to like parts. The components in the figures are not necessarily to scale, emphasis instead being placed upon illustrating the principles of the subject matter. Moreover, all illustrations are intended to convey concepts, where relative sizes, shapes and other detailed attributes may be illustrated schematically rather than literally or precisely. Therefore, it should be appreciated that these drawings depict only embodiments of the invention and are not to be considered limiting of its scope through the use of the accompanying drawings, in which:

[0034] FIG. 1 is an isometric view of a kit or case, enclosed within: weight increments, therapy tools, tracking sensors, and tablet or digital display unit in accordance the present invention;

[0035] FIG. 2 is an isometric view of a hand strap to assist in the holding of a palm centered weight unit in conjunction with the present invention;

[0036] FIG. 3 is an isometric view of an ankle, leg or upper arm variable weighted strap or wrap with pocket for tracking sensor in conjunction with the present invention;

[0037] FIG. 4 is an isometric view of a traditional dumbbell shape weight with an inserted tracking sensor in conjunction with the present invention;

[0038] FIG. 5 is a center grip weight with attachable variable weight unit segments with area or pocket for tracking sensor in conjunction with the present invention;

[0039] FIG. 6 is an example of how a therapist might use the tracking sensor located in the patient's hand to establish VROM, and create a baseline for treatment;

[0040] FIG. 7 is an example of how a patient might perform a lateral shoulder raise with a traditional dumbbell shape coupled with a tracking motion sensor;

[0041] FIG. 8 is an example of how a patient might perform 3 separate shoulder exercises with a variable weight strap located at the wrist coupled with a tracking sensor;

[0042] FIG. 9 is an example of how a patient might perform 3 separate leg exercises with a variable weight strap located at the ankle coupled with a tracking sensor;

[0043] FIG. 10 has several examples of 2 patients using resistance bands during therapeutic exercises coupled with a tracking sensor;

[0044] FIG. 11 is an isometric view of a patient performing a shoulder movement with weights and a tracking sensor, and the portable electronic device tracking movement.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION OF THE INVENTION

[0045] The foregoing and other objects, features, and advantages of the present invention will best be understood from the following description, the appended claims, and the accompanying drawings in which;

[0046] FIG. 1 is of an isometric view of a lightweight protective case, 1220, where within will be housed the therapeutic medical device including but not limited to resistance training tools such as light weight ergonomic hand weights, variable or adjustable dumbbells, variable light weight belts or straps, resistance bands of varying tensions and thicknesses, and or lengths, removable tracking sensors to be held or placed on the body, and a tablet or digital display interface unit.

[0047] The light weight case and its contents are designed to be an in home or office kit comprising of all the tools and tracking sensors needed by a patient to perform physical therapy exercises or movements during recovery.

[0048] FIG. 2 is of several isometric views of a hand strap, 1230, including: a front, 1240, a back, 1250, closed or looped, 1260, and a held weight view front also identified as, 1240. The hand strap is designed to assist individuals with holding a hand held varying weight unit of the palm centered type. This strap and weight is particularly advantageous with a population of patients who don't have complete control over their arm movements or similarly don't have strong grip control, but need a light weight for therapeutic movements to improve range of motion, muscle retentions, strength and several other key body functions. This population may range from those with serious upper body injury resulting from a car accident or injured military personnel to those suffering from muscular degenerative diseases such as Cerebral Palsy, ALS, or MS. In addition, the palm centered hand weight and strap is also of value to those confined to a wheel chair or other assisted mobility device that has moving parts, bars, seats, straps, or other apparatus designed to hold the individual in an upright or seated position. Often doing therapeutic exercises becomes more challenging when there exists the added task or challenge of avoiding contact with a device. For example, altering or changing your body's motion during therapeutic exercises, to avoid hitting the side of a wheel chair or worse hitting yourself with the end of a dumbbell, can be difficult and often changes the movement resulting in loss of its therapeutic value all together, as the individual changes the range of motion to perform the exercise.

[0049] The strap can be manufactured from many different textile fabrics that are breathable, flexible, and do not pinch or bind the hand during use. A primarily example of this would be a breathable or perforated neoprene material sewn together creating a pocket in between the layers, 1260, from which to insert a weight unit, 10, and securely hold it in place during physical exercise. The pocket, 1260, may be located as shown in the drawing, in the center of the strap, or may be located anywhere on the strap as long as the size and shape of the pocket makes it easy to insert the weight unit within. Additional secondary locking folds, straps, or bands, not pictured, may also be used to ensure that the weight unit is not released from the pocket unexpectedly during use. The opening or pocket is to be worn facing the inside of the user's palm to minimize the risk of any such release; however, some users many feel more comfortable with an additional level of security.

[0050] FIG. 3 is of two isometric views of the variable weighted strap or belt, 1280, closed or looped together, and, 1290, open or flat. Varying weighted belts or straps are not new to the market and are commonly used as ankle or wrist weight systems to add intensity to movement. Weight increments or bars may be of any combination of units, pictured in the drawing as 1 pound, 1300, and 2 pound, 1310. The straps or belts may come with varying numbers of available pockets throughout, 1320, pictured here as 6 total pockets; however, any combination is possible. What makes this weighted belt or strap unique is a pocket for the placement of a removable tracking sensor, 96. Identification marks or indicators, "Face Up", for example may be added to the strap or belt to ensure the correct placement of the strap or belt each time.

[0051] FIG. 4 is of an isometric view of a solid standard dumbbell, pictured here but not limited to 4 pounds, with an opening or slot, 98, for placement of a removable tracking device, 96. The dumbbell may also be equipped with finger grips, 1360, to assist in the holding and use thereof, also to identify the proper method of holding the weight unit. The tracking sensor, 96, and the pocket or slot, 98, are specifically designed to fit snug together and flush, 1370. Any size of shape of weight is possible if the pocket size, 98, for the removable tracking sensor, 96, remains constant. The ability to have one transferable sensor system across all forms of weighted solutions is critical in making the entire system cost effective and user friendly.

[0052] FIG. 5 is of several isometric views depicting a weight variable dumbbell in a traditional shape, comprised of several components: a base center grip unit, 1380, and interlocking or screw attachment weight segments, 1400, and 1420, pictured for reference only as a 1 pound and 2 pound weight unit. Each variable weight unit segment may be joined individually or as a set to the center weight unit by several possible means, pictured here as a male and female screw feature, 1390 male, and 1430 female; however, additional locking rings, clamps, collars, or press lock mechanisms may be used as well. Additional side views of the varying weight unit blocks are pictured as, 1410, side view 1 pound, and, 1450, side view 2 pound with female screw locking mechanisms, 1440. The variable weight dumbbell is pictured with weight segments of 1 lb, and 21b; however, any weight increment is possible including 1/2 pound to 2 pound and above. The variable weight dumbbell can be combined or assembled together to meet any desired weight within the segments provided. The desired weight will be clearly identified to the user by the physical or occupational therapy routine provided to the user within the tablet or digital display interface unit. The amount of weight may differ across exercise routine and number of repetitions so the user will need to follow along with the prescribed or suggested program by changing weight increments when necessary.

[0053] FIG. 6 is of two isometric views of a physical or occupational therapist, 1460, testing the range of motion of a patient, 1470. Pictured in the first scene, on the left side of the page, the therapist has the patient hold the tracking sensor, 96, without any accompanying weight. She begins to test the patient's range of motion ending in the drawing on the right side of the page. The testing process takes into consideration some input values such as height, weight, level of physical activity and sex of the patient to best determine the VROM. The following test procedures are performed to evaluate an accurate VROM. These test procedures are more of a guidance and additional procedures may be added at any time within the scope of the invention.

[0054] 1. Enter the patient's known physical known characteristics including but not limited to height, weight, age, activity level, and sex into the digital interface unit or tablet, 80.

[0055] 2. A digital photograph may be taken of the patient's body to confirm height, and overall dimensions of the body and limbs by utilizing scanning technology and algorithms to identify all the joint locations on the body based on inputs.

[0056] 3. The therapist then identifies on the digital interface unit, 80, the joint or VROM desired by either choosing the desired joint from a list or by identifying it on the digital photograph of the patient. The therapist may also manually adjust the center of the joint location if desired prior to the test and draw the preferred motion desired to test the patients range of motion.

[0057] 4. After the therapist identifies the center location of the joint desired and positions the patient's limb in the correct position identified as 0 on the digital display unit or tablet, 80, the therapist can assist the patient in the desired movement to test the range of motion. The data generated from the sensor unit is transmitted to the digital display unit or tablet, 80, by a wireless connection, 100. The data is then processed to create the current range of motion or limited range of motion of the patient. The range of motion is also evaluated against an expected normal range of motion for an individual of the patient's age, weight, height, physical activity level and sex.

[0058] 5. The therapist can also enter a pain level or difficulty associated with the range of motion into the digital interface display for reference.

[0059] 6. After the range of motion is determined, the therapist may begin assisting the patient in several therapeutic movements and log each movement into the digital processing unit as a specific exercise related to the patient's recovery. The therapist, if desired, may also identify the use of light weight units, resistance bands or other therapy tools to aid in the intensity of the motion.

[0060] FIG. 7 is an isometric view of a patient performing the prescribed or suggested physical therapy movements associated with his recovery. In this example the patient, 1470, is performing a side shoulder raise, 1490, while unassisted and unsupervised as part of his home therapy. The patient is also using a standard 4 lb dumbbell, 1350, fitted with a tracking sensor, 96. The tracking sensor, 96, is in constant contact with the digital interface unit or tablet, 80, to identify correct movement and number of repetitions per exercise. The patient may also review results of the exercise routine and track his/her own performance over time. After the exercise is completed and logged, the summary is sent to the therapist for review.

[0061] FIG. 8 is a series of 3 isometric views of a patient, 1470, performing 3 therapeutic movements including: shoulder flexion and extension, shoulder abduction, shoulder rotation both lateral and medial. In these exercises, the patient, 1470, is using a varying wrist band or belt, 1280, to increase the intensity of the functional therapeutic movements. As identified in previous illustrations, the patient, 1470, is using a tracking sensor, 96, imbedded within an additional weighted unit, 1280, to evaluate the movements performed and log each exercise as a part of a larger physical therapeutic routine towards recovery.

[0062] FIG. 9 is a series of 3 isometric views of a patient, 1470, performing 3 therapeutic movements including: strengthening quadriceps, hip abduction and hamstring curl. In these exercises, the patient, 1470, is using a varying wrist band or belt, 1280, to increase the intensity of the functional therapeutic movements. As identified in previous illustrations the patient, 1470, is using a tracking sensor, 96, imbedded within an additional weighted unit, 1280, to evaluate the movements performed and log each exercise as a part of a larger physical therapeutic routine towards recovery.

[0063] FIG. 10 is a series of movements performed by 2 patients, 1470, using resistance or stretching bands to perform therapeutic exercises in combination with a tracking sensor held in the hand, 1500. As identified in previous illustrations, the patients, 1470, are using a tracking sensor held in their hand to evaluate the movements performed and log each exercise as a part of a larger physical therapeutic routine towards recovery.

[0064] FIG. 11 is an isometric view like FIG. 7, in which a patient is performing the prescribed or suggested physical therapy movements associated with his recovery including a close-up of the tablet unit, 80. In this example, the patient, 1470, is performing a standing lateral shoulder raise, 1490, while unassisted and unsupervised as part of a home therapy exercise routine. The patient is also using a standard 4 lb dumbbell, 1350, fitted or embedded with a tracking sensor, 96. The tracking sensor, 96, is in constant contact with the digital interface unit or tablet, 80, supplying data to identify if the patient is performing the correct movement desired and to track the number of repetitions per exercise. The patient may also review the exercise routine, 1510, prior to exercise, and track his/her own performance in real time against the prescribed motion by simply watching his motion, 1550, on the tablet, 80, against the prescribed motion, 1540. The patient is also notified in real time as to the number of repetitions remaining in either a countdown or real count notification, 1520. The software will also use data gathered by the tracking sensor (including degrees of motion and motion within a 3-dimensional space across an x, y, and z axis) 1530, to compare prior assisted therapeutic exercises, 1540, established by a therapist against actual exercises performed by the unsupervised patient and displayed on the tablet as 1550. After the exercise is completed and logged, the summary is sent to the therapist for review. The primary function of the sensor unit is to set up therapeutic motions while being assisted by a doctor, caregiver, or licensed physical therapist with the patient's own range of motion, pain level, flexibility, and other body limitations, and to track ongoing unsupervised therapeutic exercises against those established earlier as a baseline. Rather than preprogramming the tablet with multiple exercise programs, exercise motions, and ranges of motions across varying potential injuries, the exercise routine is recorded by the patient's own body with the sensor and assisted by a therapist to create the most individualistic recovery routine possible.

[0065] As used herein and in the appended claims, the singular forms "a", "an", and "the" include plural referents unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0066] The publications discussed herein are provided solely for their disclosure prior to the filing date of the present application. Nothing herein is to be construed as an admission that the present disclosure is not entitled to antedate such publication by virtue of prior disclosure. Further, the dates of publication provided may be different from the actual publication dates which may need to be independently confirmed.

[0067] It should be noted that all features, elements, components, functions, and steps described with respect to any embodiment provided herein are intended to be freely combinable and substitutable with those from any other embodiment. If a certain feature, element, component, function, or step is described with respect to only one embodiment, then it should be understood that that feature, element, component, function, or step can be used with every other embodiment described herein unless explicitly stated otherwise. This paragraph therefore serves as antecedent basis and written support for the introduction of claims, at any time, that combine features, elements, components, functions, and steps from different embodiments, or that substitute features, elements, components, functions, and steps from one embodiment with those of another, even if the following description does not explicitly state, in a particular instance, that such combinations or substitutions are possible. It is explicitly acknowledged that express recitation of every possible combination and substitution is overly burdensome, especially given that the permissibility of each and every such combination and substitution will be readily recognized by those of ordinary skill in the art.

[0068] In many instances entities are described herein as being coupled to other entities. It should be understood that the terms "coupled" and "connected" (or any of their forms) are used interchangeably herein and, in both cases, are generic to the direct coupling of two entities (without any non-negligible (e.g., parasitic) intervening entities) and the indirect coupling of two entities (with one or more non-negligible intervening entities). Where entities are shown as being directly coupled together, or described as coupled together without description of any intervening entity, it should be understood that those entities can be indirectly coupled together as well unless the context clearly dictates otherwise.

[0069] While the embodiments are susceptible to various modifications and alternative forms, specific examples thereof have been shown in the drawings and are herein described in detail. It should be understood, however, that these embodiments are not to be limited to the particular form disclosed, but to the contrary, these embodiments are to cover all modifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spirit of the disclosure. Furthermore, any features, functions, steps, or elements of the embodiments may be recited in or added to the claims, as well as negative limitations that define the inventive scope of the claims by features, functions, steps, or elements that are not within that scope.

Claims

1. A method that enables a therapist to develop a therapeutic exercise for a patient: providing a position tracking sensor to a patient, wherein the position tracking sensor includes a wireless communication system that enables an electronic computing device to wirelessly record any movement of the position tracking sensor; using a first electronic computing device, recording the position tracking sensor movement as the therapist directs the patient to make a particular physical movement, wherein the position tracking sensor is attached to the patient such that the position tracking sensor moves concomitantly with the patient's particular physical movement; and using the first electronic computing device, enabling the therapist to establish a range of motion for the patient and an exercise to enable the patient to increase the range of motion.

2. The method of claim 1, wherein electronic computing device is a tablet or smartphone.

3. The method of claim 1, wherein the exercise includes having the patient carry a first weight having a position tracking sensor embedded in the first weight.

4. The method of claim 3, wherein the first weight is attached to a strap that is wrapped around the patient's leg.

5. The method of claim 3, wherein the first weight is attached to a belt.

6. The method of claim 3, further comprising: using a second electronic computing device, monitoring the patient performing the exercise and tracking data enabling the therapist to determine whether the exercise was performed in accordance with therapist requirements.

7. The method of claim 1, wherein the therapist establishes the range of motion by locating a joint on the patient associated with the range of motion, identifying a center location of the joint, and identifying desired movements of one or more limbs associated with the joint.

8. The method of claim 1, further comprising: using the first electronic computing device, capturing a digital image of the patient and calculating patient body and limb dimensions.

9. A system that enables a therapist to develop a therapeutic exercise for a patient: a position tracking sensor, configured to be attached to the patient, wherein the position tracking sensor includes a wireless communication system that enables an electronic computing device to wirelessly record any movement of the position tracking sensor; a first electronic computing device in wireless communication with the position tracking sensor, having a non-transitory computer readable medium, which, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps: record the position tracking sensor movement as the therapist directs the patient to make a particular physical movement, wherein the position tracking sensor is attached to the patient such that the position tracking sensor moves concomitantly with the patient's particular physical movement; and enable the therapist to establish a range of motion for the patient and an exercise to enable the patient to increase the range of motion.

10. The system of claim 9, wherein electronic computing device is a tablet or smartphone.

11. The system of claim 9, further comprising a first weight having a position tracking sensor embedded in the first weight, configured to be used by the patient during the established exercise to increase range of motion.

12. The system of claim 11, further comprising a strap to support the first weight as it is attached to the patient's leg.

13. The system of claim 11, further comprising a weight belt to support the first weight attached to the patient's torso.

14. The system of claim 11, wherein the first weight has a variable weight system.

15. The system of claim 11, wherein the first weight has an interlocking system enabling it to be attached to a second weight.

16. The system of claim 9, further comprising: a second electronic computing device having a non-transitory computer readable medium with instructions that, when executed by a processor, performs the following steps: monitor the patient performing the exercise, and track data enabling the therapist to determine whether the exercise was performed in accordance with therapist requirements.

17. The system of claim 9, wherein the first electronic computing device is further configured to enable the therapist to establish the range of motion by locating a joint on the patient associated with the range of motion, identifying a center location of the joint, and identifying desired movements of one or more limbs associated with the joint.

18. The system of claim 9, wherein the first electronic computing device is further configured to capture a digital image of the patient and calculate patient body and limb dimensions.

19. The system of claim 9, wherein the position tracking sensor includes a gyroscope and accelerator subsystem.

20. The system of claim 9, wherein the range of motion relates to one of: a hip, a knee, a shoulder, an elbow.