New smart patch study 'could aid early detection of osteoarthritis'

Detecting the early signs ofosteoarthritis could become easier with the development of a new smart patch by UK researchers. A team from Cardiff University has commenced a study that aims to develop a cheap and easy method of identifying the telltale signs of the disease before it fully develops, potentially revolutionising the future treatment of the damaging condition. How the smart patch will work The research will focus on the use of acoustic emission technology to detect the small cracking sounds that joints make as the process of osteoarthritis-related degradation commences. Many patients with the disease notice audible grating or clicking noises from their joints and bones during regular movement, due to friction between the bone and cartilage. This is usually only noticeable once the condition has progressed past the point where anything can be done about it, but it is known that joints make similar sounds earlier on in the process - albeit at higher frequencies that are not audible to the human ear. As such, the new patch will use acoustic emission sensors - which are usually used to detect shockwaves created by damage in aircraft wings and other structures - to pick up these sounds, allowing the disease to be caught at an earlier stage than is currently possible. A range of potential advantages The advantages of such a system would be numerous, as the thin patches would be convenient to wear and cheap enough to make that they would be entirely disposable - an attract...
Source: Arthritis Research UK - Category: Rheumatology Source Type: news