Multiple sclerosis: sport and rehabilitative technology.
On the occasion of the RIMS 2023 Congress (Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis) and in view of the world day of multiple sclerosis, we take stock of the state of care and rehabilitation techniques. This year there were two protagonists of the Congress: the emerging technologies, apps and devices already validated and usable in rehabilitation, and virtual reality that in the future will play a role of facilitator of rehabilitation and improvement of patients’ lives.
The meeting also focused on AI’s impact on research. In this field, among the most interesting applications currently being developed, there is the social robot that the IIT (Italian Institute of Technology) is developing and that in the future will allow a person with advanced disability to ask questions, exchange impressions, receive responses quite similar to those he would have from a real person. While it may not replace a person, this type of robot will be able to perform a protocol that keeps the patient’s relationship and emotional skills trained, slowing down the deterioration.
Then there are some ready-to-use technologies such as applications and exercise games, which allow you to do exercises with the rehab function through various types of video games. And let’s not forget the neuroplastic and therapeutic effects of physical activity on MS. In this respect, researchers are developing guidance (MOXFO initiative).
The joint session RIMS-EMSP (European Multiple Sclerosis Platform) addressed the issue of occupational and vocational rehabilitation in multiple sclerosis, an area that has long developed in northern Europe, particularly in Belgium and the Netherlands and which is an important tool for job retention. In addition, in this case, standardized guidelines will be developed to define how to respond to the available scientific and clinical evidence. Finally, a further message of hope for the sick: RIMS will create a committee composed of people with MS that can act as an advisory body for the executive board of RIMS in strategic decisions on priorities and initiatives to be pursued.
#Health #artificial intelligence #sport #therapy
