MIT Tech to Daily Mobility: Fall-Preventing Adaptive Shoes with Dr. Tyler Susko - Episode 164
In this inspiring episode of the Caregiver Relief Podcast, host Diane Carbo sits down with Dr. Tyler Susko, a mechanical engineering PhD from MIT, professor at UC Santa Barbara, and the founder/CTO of Cadense.
Dr. Susko shares his incredible journey from designing robotics for children with cerebral palsy to developing Cadense Adaptive Footwear—a revolutionary solution designed to help those with stroke, MS, Parkinson’s, and age-related mobility issues walk with confidence and safety.
🎙️ Episode Highlights
- From Lab to Life: How an MIT-developed "Skywalker" robotic treadmill inspired the creation of wearable, variable-friction shoes that help prevent toe drag and falls.
- A Personal Shift: Dr. Susko discusses his own experience as a caregiver for his father, who lives with Parkinson's, and how the shoes impacted his father’s daily mobility and independence.
- Rehab Reimagined: Why these shoes act as a "home-based physical therapy" tool, potentially reducing the reliance on bulky AFO (Ankle Foot Orthosis) braces for those with moderate mobility issues.
- The "Secret Sauce": A deep dive into how variable friction technology works—providing a low-friction "glide" during the swing phase of a step, and high-friction "grab" once you place your weight down.
- Empowerment through "Tough Love": Diane and Dr. Susko discuss the vital role of caregivers as cheerleaders, encouraging patients to push through the "baby steps" required for long-term recovery.
💡 Key Takeaways for Caregivers
- Don't Overlook Safety: Even "moderate" fall risks can lead to life-altering injuries. Simple tools can make a massive difference in preventing falls.
- Consistency is Key: The most successful users of adaptive technology are those who incorporate consistent, daily walking routines.
- You Are the Priority: Remember, as a caregiver, you are the most important part of the caregiving equation. Please remember to practice self-care; you are worth it!
🔗 Listen & Learn More
Ready to explore how Cadense footwear might support your loved one’s mobility?
- Explore the technology: Visit cadense.com to see the shoes in action and watch the instructional series on how to safely implement them in your caregiving routine.
- Cadense Official Channel: Multiple videos on product overviews, research, and user stories. Browse here
How Cadense Adaptive Shoes Work. The Science behind variable friction.
Discover the groundbreaking science of variable friction in Cadense Adaptive Shoes. Explore our research, team, grants, and publications. Unlock the future of footwear technology today!
💬 Got a Question? Ask the Expert!
Caring for a loved one can be overwhelming — but you're not alone. If you have questions, big or small, our expert team is here to help.
👉 Click here to Ask the Expert
Caring for a loved one can be overwhelming — but you're not alone. If you have questions, big or small, our expert team is here to help.
👉 Click here to Ask the Expert
💡
Do you need help caring for a loved one?
Our Resource section can help you find the information and tools that you need. We have courses, videos, checklists, guidebooks, cheat sheets, how-to guides and more.
You can get started by clicking on the link below. We know that taking care of a loved one is hard work, but with our help you can get the support that you need.
Click here to go to Resource Section now!
Our Resource section can help you find the information and tools that you need. We have courses, videos, checklists, guidebooks, cheat sheets, how-to guides and more.
You can get started by clicking on the link below. We know that taking care of a loved one is hard work, but with our help you can get the support that you need.
Click here to go to Resource Section now!
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