Syncro is a medical device for post-surgical knee rehabilitation. Unlike the traditional continuous passive motion (CPM) device used today, it’s designed to create the most effective way for a full recovery through the following: • Gradual increase of self dependency from passive to active movement. • Use of both legs to create a synchronized and balanced recovery. Stimulating patient’s motivation through a user interface that makes rehabilitation enjoyable.

Following a successful knee operation, patients must endure an average of 5 month of recovery. During the process, they rely on a CPM (continuous passive motion) device to slowly flex and extend the newly attached ligament, for up to 6 hours per day. Observation shows that patients grow bored and lose interest from lack of physical involvement, resulting in them stopping the therapy. The danger of improper rehabilitation can hinder an injury permanently. The challenge was to find an innovative solution, to motivate users to consistently follow through with the rehabilitation. Creating an alternative process to fully involve patient’s body during the rehabilitation was another problem faced.

My personal challenge was to create a better experience that motivates users to consistently follow through their rehabilitation. Syncro provides a visual progression and connects patients with their physical therapist and doctor. It replaces confusing chart and numeric spread sheet to things we naturally perceive and understand: shape, color, and movements. It creates a rehabilitation program based on the condition of patients uninjured leg. The physical progression and the goal to reach the next stage creates motivation. Visual representation of the progress shown on the device keeps patients interested and informed.

Each year more than 270,000 patients went through a knee surgery.
Rehabilitation can last up to 6 month.
User analysis shows decrease in patients participation and follow through due to a slow and boring program.
Interviews from orthopedic surgeons outlines the importance of keeping a strong will and mentality during the rehabilitation.
Research shows that existing product (CPM device) have one main function for all types of patients regarding their age, operation outcome, and size.
During the rehabilitation, patients are scheduled to meet physical therapist monthly. However, there is no clear solution for therapists to keep track of patient’s daily progress.
Active treatment can help patients to increase physical mobility and better control over the leg.

Syncro promotes self dependency through progressive rehabilitation and balanced recovery. It motivates users to consistently follow through with the rehabilitation making it the most effective way for a full recovery. Syncro divides the rehab process–which can last up to 6 months–into three shorter progressive stages. It starts with a passive stage, which acts similar to a CPM device, passively flexing and extending their legs to help them regain control. Next, it’s followed by a semi-active stage, which involves both injured and uninjured leg. By mechanically distributing the ratio of movement between the injured and uninjured leg, patients can set a goal to reach an equal ratio by end of this stage. In the last Active stage, patients use their own strength to extend and flex their legs at an inclined position without the help of a motor. The controlled motion while progressing through the three stages prevents weakness and damage that could be caused by uncontrolled use of the knee. Also, patients have goals to advance through the stages.
Doctors and therapists can easily oversee patient progress and create a customized rehabilitation plan. Data about consistency, stability, and progress are stored on to the device and sent wirelessly to the caregiver. They can make decisions to advance or extend a process with notifications to the patient. The value of knowing patient’s progress and providing a precise plans will reduce injury recurrence rates and create a faster recovery. Clear displays allow patients to visually see their progress.