Restoring Touch and Movement: A New Wearable System for Hand Impairments

A groundbreaking collaboration between researchers from MedUni Vienna, ETH Zurich, TU Munich, and the Medical Faculty Belgrade has produced a novel wearable system called "SensoExo." This device combines a hand exoskeleton with a neurostimulation sleeve, aiming to restore not just movement, but also the sense of touch for patients with neurological hand impairments.

The system works through a sophisticated dual-action approach: The sleeve stimulates nerves and muscles in the user's forearm, while sensors placed on the fingers provide tactile feedback via electrical stimulation. This creates a closed-loop system where movement and sensation are integrated.

"Our aim was not only to provide mechanical support for movement, but also to restore their sense of touch. The interplay of strength, movement and the sense of touch is crucial, particularly when gripping." — Stanisa Raspopovic, study director, MedUni Vienna

Clinical Trial Results

In a clinical trial, 14 patients with neurological hand impairments were tested under three conditions: no support, exoskeleton alone, and exoskeleton combined with neurostimulation. Eight participants completed grasping tasks involving both bulky and fragile objects.

The results were compelling: The combined system improved finger mobility and tactile perception significantly more than the exoskeleton alone. The benefits were especially pronounced in severely impaired patients, suggesting the technology could offer a lifeline to those with the greatest need.

"The results show that motor assistance and sensory feedback must be considered together. The system can be adapted depending on the individual's impairment profile." — Andrea Cimolato, lead author, MedUni Vienna

Looking Ahead

While the prototype represents a significant step forward, researchers are careful to manage expectations. The study, published in Science Advances, provides early clinical evidence of the concept's viability.

"The technology is currently a prototype and not a fully developed medical device for everyday use. However, the study provides early clinical evidence that non-invasive neurostimulation combined with wearable robotics can form a realistic basis for future personalised assistance systems." — Stanisa Raspopovic

Limitations

• The system remains a prototype, not a commercial device
• Larger studies with more specific patient groups are needed
• Long-term integration and user acceptance require further investigation

Institutional Partners

• MedUni Vienna (lead institution)
• ETH Zurich (exoskeleton development)
• Technical University of Munich (exoskeleton development)
• Medical Faculty Belgrade (clinical assessments)