FURI | Spring 2019

Upper Extremity Orthotic Medical Device to Facilitate Movement for Individuals with Muscular Dystrophy

Muscular dystrophy is a group of genetic diseases caused by mutations or abnormal genes that progressively results in weakness in or loss of muscle mass. Due to a degradation of the muscles, individuals have difficulties completing everyday tasks or pursuing hobbies such as trying to put on clothing or attempting to play a musical instrument. There is no cure for muscular dystrophy, but medications or therapy can help manage symptoms or delay muscle degradation. This creates a need to explore and create novel solutions to address daily issues that patients face. The goal of this research project is to create an upper extremity orthotic to facilitate a greater degree of movement.