“The future depends on what you do today.”
Gandhi
Tip Toe Tracker
The TipToeTracker is a small biofeedback device that constantly monitors the angle of Julian's leg.
How it works
The device is inserted into Julian’s sock at calf level. When he maintains a flat-footed stance with the heel in contact with the ground, the device remains inactive. However, if the foot is not flat—causing the tracker to deviate from a perpendicular orientation relative to the ground—it initiates a monitoring sequence.
After a 5-second delay, if the misalignment persists, the device delivers a gentle vibration as a tactile reminder. If the heel is not lowered within that period, the tracker escalates to a stronger vibration lasting an additional 10 seconds. Should the tiptoe posture continue beyond this threshold, the device issues an auditory alert (beep) to prompt corrective action.
The TipToeTracker encourages Julian to lower his heel to the ground, helping stretch his muscles and prevent further tightening. Even if he presses his heel down only briefly to stop the vibration, that small stretch is still better than none.
Now in its second version, Julian has worn the TipToeTracker for over a year. His glowing review? “It’s pretty good!”—which, coming from him, says a lot.
The device measures just 44mm x 31mm x 10mm and runs on two coin cell batteries.
Conclusion and considerations
Julian’s acceptance of the first version of the TipToeTracker—mounted to his splint years ago—inspired me to keep developing and improving the device. The current version is more refined and, without a doubt, has the potential to help others facing the same physical challenges as Julian.
The following improvements should be made:
USB chargeable
Easier access to on/off switch
Momentary pause button
Adjustable angle analysis while active
Smaller format. Streamlined.
Soft case