Pneumatically Actuated Torsion Motor for the Transverse Rehabilitation of the Neck Joint

Abstract

Work-related musculoskeletal disorders affect a large number of people, diminishing inter alia, their workplace efficiency. For this reason, rehabilitation procedures and equipment are called for, designed to expedite the swift reintegration of patients into daily activity. Within this context, this paper proposes a novel constructive solution of a device that ensures rehabilitation through the transverse passive mobilization of the neck joint. This paper introduces a torsion motor actuated by two pneumatic muscles that ensure sufficient adaptability of the device to, for example, conduct patient exercise within the boundaries of pain supportability. Based on the research results, recommendations are offered for the optimum operation of the rehabilitation equipment.