When diagnosing neuromuscular problems in patients — when they age or get a concussion, for example — doctors typically make conclusions based on information that is qualitative, or subjective. But a tablet app developed by researchers at Harvard University’s Wyss Institute for Biologically Inspired Engineering may be able to quantitatively measure neuromuscular performance for the first time. In a clinical study of the technology, called “NeuroAssess,” 150 people used a stylus to trace a moving target around a circle on a tablet. Their performance — that is, how often they deviated from the path — was measured, and then analyzed based on age, sex and handedness. From this, a number that shows differences in performance between people or conditions can be produced, according to a release. “It is portable, repeatable, quick to administer and easy to perform,” said Lei Stirling, a Wyss senior staff engineer who led the study.
New App from Harvard Helps Doctors Monitor Concussions
on 2.20.13
Author: Shelly Palmer
Shelly Palmer is Fox 5 New York's On-air Tech Expert (WNYW-TV) and the host of Fox Television's monthly show Shelly Palmer Digital Living. He also hosts United Stations Radio Network's, Shelly Palmer Digital Living Daily, a daily syndicated radio report that features insightful commentary and a unique insiders take on the biggest stories in technology, media, and entertainment. He is Managing Director of Advanced Media Ventures Group, LLC an industry-leading advisory and business development firm and a member of the Executive Committee of the National Academy of Television Arts & Sciences (the organization that bestows the coveted Emmy® Awards).
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