New robotic physical therapy system commences trials

A new type of robot that can deliver high-quality and repeatable treatment routines to improve sports recovery has commenced testing in Singapore.

The trial is being led by Nanyang Technological University (NTU) and will evaluate the performance of the Expert Manipulative Massage Automation system, which is nicknamed Emma.

It consists of a robotic arm that comes equipped with a 3D stereoscopic camera and a custom made 3D-printed massage tip. The robot utilises sensors and diagnostic functions to measure the response of a patient and the stiffness of a particular muscle or tendon.

Through the course of treatment, it produces detailed diagnostics that can be analysed and uploaded to the cloud, allowing the patient's recovery to be closely monitored over time. Emma has already been used to treat 50 patients, including professional athletes for conditions including tennis elbow, stiff neck and shoulders, and lower back pain.

NTU graduate Albert Zhang, who led the creation of the technology, said: "Our aim is not to replace the therapists who are skilled in sports massage and acupoint therapy, but to improve productivity by enabling one therapist to treat multiple patients with the help of our robots."