Musculoskeletal disorders—including osteoarthritis, arthritis, and sports-related injuries—affect over 1.7 billion people globally, according to the WHO. In response, a consortium led by Blautic Designs, AIMPLAS, the European Musculoskeletal Institute (IMSKE), Crespo Printing Group, and the Universitat Politècnica de València (UPV) has launched the KINESSENSOR project.
As first reported by Med-Tech Insights, the project seeks to create an AI-driven, portable monitoring system designed to track joint, ligament, and muscle injuries using a combination of flexible printed and traditional sensors.
Focus on Arthrogenic Muscle Inhibition
KINESSENSOR specifically addresses arthrogenic muscle inhibition (AMI)—a condition marked by involuntary hypertonia in the hamstrings, often seen in anterior cruciate ligament injuries and knee prosthetic surgeries. AMI complicates rehabilitation by inducing pain and muscular contractures. The project’s goal is to intervene earlier and more accurately in such conditions by integrating smart sensors into kinesiology bands or orthotic devices that capture critical biomechanical data in real time.
AI-Powered Monitoring and Real-Time Feedback
The system under development includes wireless communication capabilities and a data analysis platform powered by artificial intelligence. This allows healthcare professionals to receive immediate feedback on patient conditions and adjust treatment protocols accordingly. According to the project team, this solution empowers patients to carry out rehabilitation exercises independently at home while still being monitored, thereby improving outcomes and reducing healthcare costs.
Bridging Technology and Personalized Medicine
Funded by the Valencian Institute of Competitiveness and Innovation (IVACE+i) and the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), KINESSENSOR exemplifies how applied technology can address critical healthcare gaps. The innovation not only enhances clinical monitoring tools but also supports a broader move toward personalized and accessible medicine. The project may also spur the creation of a spin-off venture focused on printed sensor technology, signaling commercial and strategic opportunities in the medtech space.
KINESSENSOR merges AI, flexible electronics, and wearable technology to provide healthcare professionals and patients with a smarter, more connected approach to musculoskeletal care. This initiative represents a significant stride in digital health innovation, aligning with global goals for better health, innovation, and economic resilience.
