Innovative Wireless Sensor Measures Muscle and Tissue Stiffness in Real-Time

Engineers at Duke University have developed a compact, wireless patch capable of noninvasively measuring the stiffness of skin and underlying tissues up to a depth of several inches. This innovative device, comparable in size to a smartwatch, opens new possibilities for various medical applications. It can assist in monitoring wound healing, diagnosing skin cancer, managing fluid levels during resuscitation, and aiding muscle rehabilitation.

The sensor operates by sending sound waves through the body’s surface and analyzing the resulting vibrations to determine tissue stiffness. It utilizes a sweeping frequency range from 50 Hertz to 800 Hertz—covering deep thunder to ambulance siren sounds—to measure different tissue depths. The system processes these signals to separate skin layers from underlying tissues, providing detailed mechanical insights.

Designed to be worn effortlessly, the device is battery-powered with a typical usage span of a few hours, but future versions aim for longer, wireless operation. Its small size and skin attachment flexibility make it suitable for continuous monitoring, akin to how one would tap on a wall to locate a stud. This technology could eventually integrate into athletic wear, medical wraps, or clothing, providing real-time feedback on muscle performance and fatigue.

The innovation was detailed in the recent publication "Wireless, wearable elastography via mechano-acoustic wave sensing for ambulatory monitoring of tissue stiffness" in Science Advances. Researchers envision future applications that include integration into everyday apparel and assistive robotics, creating a comprehensive health management system that is as simple to use as a smartwatch.

According to Xiaoyue Ni, an assistant professor at Duke University, the device can even be used for personal health monitoring, such as tracking milk supply postpartum. The team emphasizes that tissue stiffness measurement has broad medical relevance, from cancer diagnosis to injury recovery, currently relying on bulky and expensive ultrasound devices. This pocket-sized, wireless sensor aims to revolutionize that process, making real-time tissue analysis accessible, portable, and seamless.

Source: https://medicalxpress.com/news/2025-09-smart-sensor-muscles-tissues-real.html