Diseño de un producto terapéutico para la rehabilitación de las manos en adultos con hipertonía

Abstract

The purpose of this thesis project is to design a therapeutic product focused on hand rehabilitation in adults suffering from hypertonia, a neuromuscular condition consisting of an abnormal increase in muscle tone, which limits manual function and, consequently, personal autonomy. The research is being conducted in the context of the "El Peral 1" Municipal Inclusive Disability Assistance Center, located in the city of Ambato, Tungurahua province, where there are limitations in access to specific devices that meet the needs of this population. In order to identify the requirement of the place, the initial population consisted of 60 people diagnosed with this condition. This allowed for the identification of common patterns in their functional characteristics. From this, a sample of 10 individuals who met the specific characteristics required for the research was selected. Therefore, significant differences are identified in the current supply of therapeutic devices, mainly due to high production and import costs, and therefore also the lack of adaptability of existing models. As a result, the main objective of this project is to develop an accessible and functional device, accompanied by important features such as ergonomics and a design focused on adults with hypertonia. To achieve this, a mixed-methodological approach was applied, combining qualitative data collection through interviews with specialists in the rehabilitation of people with this condition, complemented by biomechanical measurements, which allowed for the definition of precise functional requirements. To manufacture the prototype, the therapeutic design began with modular components, utilizing 3D printing technology and biocompatible materials such as neoprene, which not only allows for reduced production costs but also allows the prototype to be adapted to different degrees of muscle stiffness. Functional validation was verified through simulations and preliminary tests, which demonstrated user acceptance of the therapeutic device and ease of handling for rehabilitation professionals. In addition to the feasibility of integrating industrial design knowledge with therapeutic criteria, the project also offers a different, innovative, and affordable alternative for the therapeutic treatment of hypertonia in adults at the "El Peral 1" Municipal Inclusive Disability Care Center, focusing on the limited resources available to these patients. Likewise, it helps strengthen the autonomy of patients with hypertonia, which is one of the Center's core goals, and improve their quality of life.