Approach

The SmILE project aims to develop a comprehensive, technology-supported strategy for the prevention, monitoring, and personalised treatment of musculoskeletal non-communicable diseases (MSK-NCDs) in older adults. With the rising prevalence of conditions such as osteoarthritis, osteoporosis, and fragility fractures, the project focuses on early intervention to reduce chronic pain, loss of mobility, and long-term care dependency.

At the heart of this approach is the creation of a flexible, adaptable chip platform that can be integrated into medical devices—particularly orthopaedic implants. When paired with customised sensors and actuators, these devices are capable of continuously gathering clinically relevant biomechanical and physiological data, reducing the need for additional procedures.

In parallel, SmILE is developing an AI-based, patient-centred health platform that integrates data from implants, wearables, and patient-reported outcomes. This system will support continuous monitoring, enable early detection of complications, and provide personalised insights to both patients and healthcare providers.

The methodology is validated through six use cases involving innovative orthopaedic and assistive technologies, ranging from intelligent walking aids to instrumented implants, addressing key challenges in musculoskeletal health and functional recovery.

Committed to ensuring its solutions are accessible to end-users, the project follows a co-design process and places strong emphasis on patient engagement from the outset. Older adults are invited to co-develop user interfaces and actively contribute to both the design and evaluation. By enabling access to personal health data and providing tailored feedback, the project strives to enhance health literacy and empower individuals to manage their own musculoskeletal health.

Through this integrated approach, SmILE will deliver a scalable, patient-driven model for addressing MSK-NCDs and supporting healthy ageing across Europe.