The proposed novel passive hand tremor attenuator for Parkinson’s patients

This research project, funded through the Health Research BC and Mitacs Industry-Based Program, focuses on developing a wearable device to help people living with Parkinson’s disease and other movement disorders manage hand tremors. The work is led by Dr. Hadi Mohammadi and carried out by postdoctoral intern Dr. Dylan Goode in collaboration with Summit Innovation Ltd. and the University of British Columbia Okanagan.

Tremors are a common and often frustrating symptom of Parkinson’s disease and essential tremor. They can make everyday tasks like eating, writing, or getting dressed very challenging. Although treatments such as medication and surgery are available, they are not always effective, especially for hand tremors.

This project is creating a small, lightweight, and fully passive device that reduces tremors using smart mechanical design. The device absorbs the small, rapid movements that cause tremors without affecting a person’s normal voluntary motions. It is being designed to be safe, comfortable, and easy to use in daily life.

The device is being refined through computer simulations and real-world testing, including with older adults in long-term care facilities in Kelowna. The goal is to offer a practical and affordable solution that improves quality of life and independence for people living with tremors.

Keywords: Parkinson’s disease, essential tremor, wearable medical device, hand tremor, passive actuator, biomedical engineering