Prevent ACL Injuries by 80% with New AI Knee Brace
Image Credit: Nik Shuliahin | Unsplash
A groundbreaking innovation from a London-based startup is set to transform women’s sports by significantly reducing the prevalence of anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injuries. The company, Hippos Exoskeleton, has developed an AI-powered knee brace that claims to prevent up to 80% of ACL injuries, offering a beacon of hope in a field long plagued by debilitating knee injuries.
Cutting-Edge Technology at Work
Hippos Exoskeleton’s latest product integrates advanced artificial intelligence with a pair of strategically placed sensors on the brace. These sensors monitor the knee’s movements in real-time, detecting when the joint is nearing its breaking point. In such critical moments, the AI swiftly activates an airbag system within the brace, halting knee motion in under 25 milliseconds—quicker than the 60 milliseconds it typically takes for a ligament to rupture.
How It Works
The innovative knee brace operates by first learning the user’s normal range of motion through thousands of recorded movements. When the AI identifies an awkward or potentially harmful movement pattern, it makes a rapid decision within five milliseconds to determine the risk of an ACL or MCL tear. If a threat is detected, a microchip triggers the inflation of an airbag, providing immediate support and a buffer zone around the knee. Once the danger has passed, the airbag deflates, allowing the athlete to continue their activity seamlessly. This system is fully reusable, ensuring long-term protection without recurring costs.
Addressing the ACL Injury Crisis
ACL tears are among the most common and severe knee injuries in sports, often resulting from sudden changes in direction, abrupt stops, or improper landing techniques. These injuries can sideline athletes for months, requiring extensive rehabilitation or even surgery. The impact is particularly pronounced in women’s sports, where female athletes are eight times more likely to suffer ACL ruptures compared to their male counterparts. In leagues like the AFLW (Australian Football League Women), the issue is stark, with numerous players currently recovering from knee injuries. This high incidence rate underscores the urgent need for effective preventative measures, positioning Hippos Exoskeleton’s technology as a potential game-changer.
Personal Stakes and Vision
Kylin Shaw, one of the co-creators of the Hippos Exoskeleton, brings a personal understanding of the injury’s impact. Having endured an ACL tear at 17 that derailed his basketball aspirations, Shaw is driven by a mission to prevent others from facing similar setbacks. His vision extends beyond individual recovery, aiming to preserve the careers and dreams of countless athletes worldwide.
Expert Insights and Future Prospects
Experts from the University of South Australia weigh in on the technology’s potential. Jon Buckley, Executive Dean of Allied Health and Human Performance, highlights that biomechanical differences and hormonal factors contribute to the higher incidence of ACL injuries in female athletes. He acknowledges the theoretical promise of the brace in reducing ligament stress but emphasizes the need for extensive real-world testing to ensure it does not impede natural movement or lead to accidental deployments during critical game moments. Addressing these concerns, Shaw reassures that out of over 4,000 tests with professional athletes, only six malfunctions occurred, demonstrating the system’s reliability. The brace undergoes a three-minute preparation process, during which it calibrates to the wearer’s specific movement patterns, ensuring personalized and accurate protection.
Market Reception and Expansion Plans
The innovative knee brace has already garnered significant interest, with Premier League club Crystal Palace integrating a prototype into their academy. Moreover, Hippos Exoskeleton has secured substantial pre-orders from the Chinese Olympic Association, signaling strong international demand. The company is poised to relocate its operations to San Francisco for long-term testing and aims to expand its presence in Australia by the end of 2025.
Balancing Innovation with Sporting Demands
As sports organizations like the AFLW navigate challenges such as condensed game schedules and player fatigue, the introduction of such protective technology could play a pivotal role in safeguarding athlete health. However, stakeholders remain cautious, balancing the excitement of technological advancements with the practicalities of athletic performance and fixture demands. Laura Kane, AFL football boss, remains optimistic about the league’s growth despite criticisms of its tight schedule. Innovations like Hippos Exoskeleton’s knee brace may offer complementary solutions to enhance player safety without compromising the integrity and excitement of the game.
Source: Fox Sports
