Invention:
The Reflex-o-Meter is a novel system designed to support clinical training, telemedicine, and future robotic healthcare applications by quantifying deep tendon reflexes (DTRs). It integrates miniature motion sensors into a standard reflex hammer and pairs them with sensors placed on a patient's limb to record and transmit reflex response data. The collected data—transmitted wirelessly to a mobile device or computer—enables real-time analysis of reflex force and limb response, enhancing both educational and diagnostic capabilities. This technology offers objective feedback for students and healthcare professionals learning to perform DTR assessments, which are a critical component of neurological exams. By creating a measurable, repeatable method for evaluating reflexes, the Reflex-o-Meter enhances consistency, learning outcomes, and potentially diagnostic accuracy, especially in remote or underserved settings.
Background:
Traditional reflex testing relies heavily on subjective assessment and clinical experience to determine if reflexes are normal, diminished, or absent. This makes it difficult for medical students and early-career practitioners to learn and accurately perform these assessments. Additionally, there is a growing demand for remote healthcare tools that enable non-clinicians or assistants to help gather reliable diagnostic data in telemedicine and tele-neurology contexts. The Reflex-o-Meter addresses these challenges by digitizing and quantifying reflex tests, something current reflex hammers cannot do. Unlike existing products that only focus on striking force or reflex initiation, this system also measures the body’s response in a synchronized manner. It supports more standardized training, offers real-time feedback, and can be integrated into broader telemedicine workflows or future AI-assisted diagnostics.
Applications:
- Medical education and training
- Neurology and neurodiagnostics
- Telemedicine and tele-neurology
- Robotic and AI-assisted physical exams
- Clinical research and reflex standardization
Advantages:
- Provides objective, measurable feedback on reflexes
- Improves consistency in reflex testing across practitioners
- Enables remote assessment and data sharing for telemedicine
- Assists early learners in developing clinical skills
- Supports standardization of DTR testing for research and diagnostics
- Compatible with existing reflex hammers
