Harnessing Artificial Intelligence to Improve Mobility in People with Movement Disorders

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence are opening new horizons in assisting individuals with mobility challenges. The Slade Lab at Harvard's John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences is pioneering research that employs AI-generated simulations to enhance biomedical devices designed to improve movement control. A key focus is understanding the neuromotor mechanisms that enable voluntary movements, which are often disrupted by various motor impairments.

Patrick Slade, an assistant professor of bioengineering, highlights that movement, traditionally seen as effortless, is actually a complex expression of intelligent behavior. The lab’s research delves into how the nervous system orchestrates muscle activity to manage tasks like walking, balancing speed, stability, and energy expenditure in real time.

By integrating neuroscientific data with machine learning techniques, the team analyzes large datasets of nerve and muscle activity. They develop skeletomuscular computer simulations that mimic human movement, providing insights into neuromotor function. These virtual models help design practical biomedical devices, such as exoskeletons and robotic assistive tools, tailored to individual needs.

One innovative project is a self-driving cane aimed at assisting those with visual impairments, which uses sensors and AI to interpret the environment and provide real-time audio feedback, effectively acting as a personalized guide. The lab also develops wearable assistive devices that interpret neuromotor signals to support or enhance movement, making activities like climbing a hill easier.

Dr. Slade emphasizes the importance of personalizing these devices to maximize benefit, noting that customization can roughly double their effectiveness. A key goal is ensuring the interaction feels seamless and natural, transforming assistive technology into an intuitive extension of the user.

This interdisciplinary approach at the Kempner Institute fosters innovative directions in understanding and improving human movement. By advancing AI-driven models and devices, the research aims to significantly impact the quality of life for people with motor disabilities.

source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-04-tools-ai-people-mobility-disorders.html