Engineers at Carnegie Mellon University have developed a customizable finger brace that uses 3D printing and embedded sensors to support recovery from hand injuries. The brace is designed to be lightweight, adjustable, and responsive to individual needs, making it suitable for a wide range of rehabilitation scenarios.
The device includes soft actuators and sensors that monitor finger movement and provide feedback during recovery. Patients can wear the brace while performing exercises, and the sensors track progress in real time. This data can be shared with therapists to adjust treatment plans and ensure proper healing.
One of the key features of the brace is its modular design. It can be tailored to different finger sizes and injury types, and the components can be swapped out or reconfigured as needed. The brace also supports active movement, helping patients regain strength and flexibility without relying solely on passive support.
The research team hopes the brace will make rehabilitation more accessible and effective, especially for patients recovering from tendon injuries, fractures, or surgeries. By combining personalized fit with smart monitoring, the device offers a modern approach to hand therapy.
Article from CMU: CMU Researchers Develop Customizable Finger Brace for Injury Recovery
