The Swiss company Mynerva has announced the development of smart socks named Leia, designed to restore sensation in the feet of diabetic patients. The socks combat diabetic neuropathy, a disease that affects the nerves in the legs and causes diabetics to lose sensation in their feet while walking, increasing the risk of falls and injuries. The socks are equipped with a comprehensive set of sensors that track areas of the foot and measure the force applied to the ground during walking. An AI processor analyzes the data and converts it into electrical pulses. These pulses are transmitted via electrodes distributed across the fabric to activate dormant nerve endings, allowing the user to accurately sense their steps. The socks are customized for each user to ensure the electrodes make proper contact with the correct areas. They can be washed like any ordinary piece of clothing without special care. Mynerva has successfully secured funding to patent the invention and obtain certification from the U.S. Food and Drug Administration (FDA). The company plans to test the socks' effectiveness in preventing foot ulcers and fully restoring nerve functions. The commercial launch is expected in 2027.
