Current Affairs: Passage of the Day - 12th November 2024 | Current Affairs & General Knowledge - CLAT PDF Download

Directions: Read the passage carefully and answer the questions that follow.
In a significant breakthrough for post-surgical knee rehabilitation, researchers at IIT Ropar have unveiled an innovative solution to make continuous passive motion (CPM) therapy more accessible and affordable. The team at IIT Ropar has developed a Completely Mechanical Passive Motion Machine for Knee Rehabilitation that has been awarded a patent (No. 553407).
Unlike traditional motorized CPM machines, which are expensive and depend on electricity, the newly developed device is entirely mechanical. It utilizes a piston and pulley system, which stores air as the user pulls a handle, enabling smooth and controlled motion to aid in knee rehabilitation. This simple yet effective design eliminates the need for electricity, batteries, or motors, making it both lightweight and portable.
The mechanical CPM machine offers a promising alternative to costly electric machines that are often out of reach for many patients, especially in rural areas with unreliable electricity supply. By reducing the reliance on electricity, it makes continuous passive motion therapy feasible even in off-grid locations.
Additionally, its portability allows for patients to use it in the comfort of their homes, reducing the need for prolonged hospital stays and rehabilitation visits.
Continuous passive motion is an important therapy for patients recovering from knee surgeries, helping to improve joint mobility, reduce stiffness, and speed up recovery. The introduction of this mechanical machine offers a cost-effective and eco-friendly alternative, opening up new possibilities for affordable healthcare solutions in knee rehabilitation.
The development of this innovative device marks a significant step towards improving access to healthcare for all, particularly in regions where resources are limited. The team’s work is expected to have a lasting impact on the way knee rehabilitation is approached, both in India and globally.
“This device has the potential to revolutionize knee rehabilitation in India, where access to advanced medical technology can be limited, particularly in rural areas,” said Dr. Abhishek Tiwari, the lead researcher, along with his team comprising Mr. Suraj Bhan Mundotiya and Dr. Samir C. Roy. “It’s designed to be a low-cost, sustainable solution that not only aids in recovery but also helps reduce the environmental impact associated with motorized devices”, he added.
[Excerpt from PIB "IIT Ropar Develops Affordable Innovation in Knee Rehabilitation Therapy" Dated 12/11/24]

Q1: What is the primary advantage of the new knee rehabilitation device developed by IIT Ropar?
(a) It is motorized and battery-operated
(b) It is portable and does not require electricity
(c) It is designed for use only in hospitals
(d) It operates on renewable solar energy

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Ans: (b)
Sol: The device operates without electricity or batteries, making it portable and suitable for various environments.

Q2: How does the new mechanical CPM machine operate?
(a) Through an electric motor
(b) By using a piston and pulley system that stores air
(c) Using batteries and solar power
(d) By manually winding a crank handle

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Ans: (b)
Sol: The device uses a piston and pulley system where users pull a handle to store air, facilitating smooth motion.

Q3: What is one key environmental benefit of IIT Ropar’s mechanical CPM machine?
(a) It uses biodegradable materials
(b) It reduces reliance on electricity
(c) It operates only in natural light
(d) It requires minimal water usage

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Ans: (b)
Sol: By eliminating the need for power sources, the device has a lower environmental impact.

Q4: Why is the new device particularly suitable for rural areas?
(a) It is designed exclusively for use by medical professionals
(b) It is affordable and doesn’t rely on electricity
(c) It requires frequent hospital visits for operation
(d) It is manufactured only in rural areas

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Ans: (b)
Sol: The low-cost and non-electric design makes it accessible and suitable for patients in rural areas where healthcare resources may be limited.

Q5: What potential impact does this innovation have on healthcare practices?
(a) It will likely be limited to high-income regions
(b) It could improve accessibility to rehabilitation in underserved areas
(c) It may increase the overall cost of knee rehabilitation
(d) It will reduce the availability of CPM machines

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Ans: (b)
Sol: The device could improve access to knee rehabilitation, especially in regions with limited medical resources.