Adaptive eating utensils with a Twist: How Bravo Twist by ProWalk outsmarts Parkinson’s tremors

We all know that food intake is essential for the survival of every living organism. Yet for humans, food can also be a great source of pleasure or even love. At any rate, it is an important part of our social life. But what happens if our own body throws a monkey wrench into our food intake by having a stroke or neurological disorder? REHACARE.com wanted to find out and asked Benedikt Preisler, founder and CEO of ProWalk orthopedic device company about the types of solutions modern orthopedic technology provides not just in this case, but also in other specialized areas of rehabilitation.

The Bravo Twist tool counteracts tremors and shaky hands. Mr. Preisler, how does the device work?

Benedikt Preisler: The Bravo Twist consists of two units: the handle and the spoon or fork replaceable attachment. The electronic system and battery are embedded in the handle. A variety of motion sensors continuously detect the spoon’s position, which repeatedly changes during the tremor. The obtained data allows the electronic system to use mini electric motors to quickly control the mechanism of the attachment. This cancels out the shaky hand movement, stabilizing the spoon or fork.

The spoon’s motion sensors capture data and use it to counteract shaky hands. Can users take the spoon and eat right away, or do they have to wait a few minutes to first allow the spoon to "collect data"?

Preisler: The data is collected in a split second and used instantly to stabilize the spoon. This means that users can eat right away with no delay. What’s more, when users pick up the spoon, it automatically detects whether they use the left or right hand.

What role does modern orthopedic technology play in terms of rehabilitation and improvement of quality of life after a stroke or Parkinson's diagnosis?

Preisler: Modern orthopedic technology is able to significantly improve the quality of life of people after a stroke or Parkinson's diagnosis. When it comes to stroke rehabilitation, high-tech devices like the "WalkAide" system fight the effects of foot drop for example. If hand function such as gripping and releasing of objects is difficult, movements can be improved by using the "ReGrasp" tool - a computer-assisted hand stimulator system – under certain medical circumstances. These types of technical devices can significantly counterbalance the effects of a person’s disability. Both essential tremor and Parkinson's disease also drastically restrict the quality of life. People affected by these disorders are unable to eat with normal utensils without dropping food. Thanks to assistive devices like the "Bravo Twist", people regain the confidence to eat in an extended social environment or go out to eat at a restaurant and once again participate in social life.

What does inclusion mean to you?

Preisler: To us, inclusion means being tolerant of people who are different and think differently. Above all, we should realize that we have no right to lifelong health. Our lives can be disrupted by unforeseen circumstances and unexpected events at any moment. That’s why inclusion first and foremost means changing your perspective and mindset and allowing all people to fully participate in all aspects of life.