In 2018, a seemingly simple solution to a complex neurological problem sparked an innovative idea. Tom Finn, witnessing the transformative effect of colored lines on the floor enabling his father, Nigel, who suffered from vascular dementia, to walk with ease, stumbled upon the principle of external cueing. This technique leverages visual, auditory, or tactile prompts to bypass damaged neural pathways and facilitate movement in individuals with neurological conditions like Parkinson’s disease. While the effectiveness of the simple exercise bands surprised Finn, he envisioned a more sophisticated application of this principle. Inspired by the emerging augmented reality (AR) technology, he conceived of a system that could project virtual cues onto the ground, thus eliminating the need for physical markers. This vision became the genesis of Strolll, a startup aimed at revolutionizing rehabilitation for neurological disorders.
Strolll’s journey, however, was not without its initial challenges. Two years into its existence, the company faced financial constraints and lacked personnel. The turning point came with the arrival of Jorgen Ellis, an entrepreneur with a personal connection to Parkinson’s disease through his grandfather’s decade-long struggle. Recognizing the potential of Finn’s concept, Ellis joined Strolll as CEO, infusing the fledgling company with much-needed direction and impetus. His immediate focus was to establish the scientific validity of AR-based cueing, a pursuit that led to a pivotal collaboration with researchers at VU University in Amsterdam.
This collaboration proved invaluable. Strolll acquired the intellectual property of the Amsterdam-based research team, led by Melvyn Roerdink, who subsequently joined the company as chief innovation officer. This acquisition, combined with Roerdink’s expertise, propelled the development and testing of their AR-based cueing technology, aptly named Reality DTx. The system, unlike the physical bands used by Finn, projects virtual colored lines onto the floor in front of the wearer, providing dynamic visual cues that disappear as the individual progresses. A Strolll-supported clinical trial subsequently confirmed the feasibility and promising therapeutic outcomes of this innovative technology.
Beyond assisting with walking difficulties, Reality DTx holds significant promise for a broader range of rehabilitation exercises. This is particularly crucial in the context of a global shortage of physiotherapists. The software incorporates AR-based games, such as whack-a-mole and basketball, cleverly designed around functional movements that are beneficial for individuals with Parkinson’s disease. Mark Ross, Strolll’s head of brand and creative strategy, and himself living with Parkinson’s, emphasizes the power of gamification in overcoming the apathy and depression that often accompany the disease. By making exercise engaging and enjoyable, the AR games effectively motivate individuals to participate in their rehabilitation, thereby addressing a critical barrier to recovery.
While the cost of the Magic Leap headset, on which the software runs, is approximately £3,000 ($3,800), coupled with a monthly subscription fee of over £300 for Strolll’s services, Ellis argues that this cost is significantly lower than the expense of traditional in-person physical therapy. This cost comparison positions Reality DTx as a potentially more accessible and sustainable solution for long-term rehabilitation. Strolll’s ambition extends beyond Parkinson’s disease; the company envisions becoming the leading rehabilitation software globally, aiming to facilitate 7 million minutes of rehab per week by the end of 2029. This ambitious goal reflects their belief in the technology’s potential to transform rehabilitation across a spectrum of neurological conditions, from stroke to multiple sclerosis, representing what Ellis describes as an “almost unlimited opportunity.”
Strolll’s journey exemplifies the power of observation, innovation, and collaboration. From a simple observation of colored lines enabling movement, the company has developed a sophisticated AR-based system with the potential to revolutionize rehabilitation. By integrating cutting-edge technology with evidence-based therapeutic principles, Strolll offers a promising solution to address the growing need for accessible and engaging rehabilitation services for individuals with neurological conditions. The company’s ambitious vision, coupled with its commitment to scientific rigor and user-centered design, positions it as a key player in the future of neurological rehabilitation.
