The acquisition will enable Hinge Health to add motion assessments for objectively measuring the functional ability of patients across strength, flexibility, balance, and endurance
Hinge Health said that wrnch will enable it to combine motion sensors and computer vision to further burnish its digital physical therapy. (Credit: Business Wire)
Hinge Health, a digital clinic for treating chronic musculoskeletal (MSK) conditions, has acquired wrnch, a Canada-based computer vision and deep learning company, for an undisclosed price.
Wrnch has developed a computer vision platform that measures human motion. The three-dimensional motion-tracking technology of the company is said to enable the same precise tracking of full-body movement that is used by the motion picture industry as well as elite athletes.
According to Hinge Health, computer vision, motion sensors and other movement-tracking technologies will help its clinical care team to offer the most responsive and customised whole-body approach to MSK care. This will enhance outcomes and member experience while cutting down costs, said the San Francisco-based company.
Wrnch founder and CEO Paul Kruszewski said: “We built wrnch into the world’s leading artificial intelligence and computer vision R&D lab to understand human motion, shape, and intent.
“I’m so excited to combine our artificial intelligence technology with Hinge Health’s Digital MSK Clinic to improve clinical outcomes for millions of members.”
Hinge Health added that wrnch’s motion sensors and computer vision will further polish its digital physical therapy solution.
The acquisition will enable it to add motion assessments for objectively measuring the functional ability of patients across strength, balance, flexibility, and endurance to determine customisation of care plan.
With wrnch, the digital clinic for MSK care will have expanded exercise tracking. This is because the combination of computer vision and motion sensors will enable the widest range and measurement of yoga, aerobics, and other full-body exercises.
Hinge Health will also be able to offer improved clinical care programmes that improve rehab of the head, neck, hands, and other difficult-to-treat areas by tracking 87 unique points on the body.
Hinge Health cofounder and CEO Daniel Perez said: “We won’t stop investing in technology to deliver the most patient-centred digital clinic that improves member experience and outcomes while reducing costs. Wrnch allows us to take a giant leap forward in all respects.”
Earlier this year, Hinge Health raised $300m in a Series D round led by Coatue Management and Tiger Global at a valuation of $3bn.