Headquarters: Graz, Austria
Founded: 2007
Status: Private company
Website: [tyromotion.com](https://tyromotion.com)
Founded by: Hermann K. R. Maier and Andreas Springer
Employees: 200-500
Overview
Mermaid diagram (expand to render)
Tyromotion is a leading manufacturer of advanced rehabilitation devices and robotic therapy solutions for patients with neurological conditions including Parkinson's disease, stroke, multiple sclerosis, cerebral palsy, and spinal cord injury. Founded in 2007 in Graz, Austria—a region renowned for its engineering expertise and medical technology innovation—the company combines robotics, sensor technology, and interactive software to create engaging rehabilitation experiences that improve patient outcomes["@tyromotion"].
Tyromotion's products are used in over 500 hospitals, rehabilitation centers, and research facilities across 45 countries worldwide. The company's mission is to make intensive, evidence-based rehabilitation accessible through innovative technology that motivates patients and supports clinicians in delivering optimal care["@tyromotiona"]. With a focus on neuroplasticity-driven rehabilitation approaches, Tyromotion has become a key player in the rapidly growing field of robotic neurorehabilitation.
Company History and Development
Founding and Early Years
Tyromotion was founded in 2007 by Hermann K. R. Maier and Andreas Springer, both engineers with backgrounds in medical device development. The company's origins trace back to research conducted at the Graz University of Technology, where founders worked on robotic systems for stroke rehabilitation. Recognizing the limitations of traditional therapy approaches—particularly the labor-intensive nature of manual therapy and the challenge of maintaining patient motivation over extended rehabilitation periods—the founders developed a vision for technology-enhanced rehabilitation.
The company's first product, the TYMO system, was launched in 2009 as an upper extremity rehabilitation robot designed for clinical use. This initial development was followed by the AMADEO hand therapy system in 2011, which represented a breakthrough in finger-specific rehabilitation technology. The early years focused on establishing clinical validation through partnerships with European rehabilitation centers and universities.
Expansion and Product Line Growth (2012-2020)
Between 2012 and 2020, Tyromotion expanded its product portfolio significantly:
- 2012: Launch of PABLO multi-functional assessment system
- 2014: Introduction of TYRO software platform for therapy management
- 2016: Expansion into Asian markets, particularly Japan and South Korea
- 2018: FDA clearance for TYMO and AMADEO systems in the United States
- 2020: Launch of cloud-based analytics platform
The company secured multiple rounds of funding from European venture capital firms, enabling expansion of manufacturing capacity and research and development. Key partnerships with academic institutions including the Medical University of Graz, University of Tübingen, and Imperial College London provided ongoing clinical validation for product efficacy.
Recent Developments (2021-Present)
In recent years, Tyromotion has focused on:
- Integration of artificial intelligence for adaptive therapy protocols
- Development of home-based rehabilitation systems
- Expansion of pediatric rehabilitation applications
- Enhancement of data analytics capabilities
The company has also established training academies in Graz, Munich, and Chicago to train clinicians on proper use of Tyromotion systems.
Products and Solutions
Robotic Rehabilitation Devices
TYMO is a versatile upper extremity rehabilitation robot designed for arm and hand motor recovery:
| Feature | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| Degrees of Freedom | 3 DOF for arm, 2 DOF for wrist |
| Control Modes | Assistive, resistive, passive |
| Gaming Integration | 50+ therapy games |
| Assessment Tools | Fugl-Meyer, Motor Activity Log |
| Patient Population | Stroke, PD, MS, SCI, TBI |
The TYMO system uses an admittance control framework that allows patients to move within a safe workspace while receiving robotic assistance or resistance. Clinical studies demonstrate that intensive, repetitive task-specific training with TYMO improves arm function in chronic stroke patients[@robotic][@upper]. The system includes:
- Assistive Mode: Robot provides assistance when patient cannot complete movement
- Resistive Mode: Robot provides resistance to build strength
- Assist-as-Needed: Robot assists only when required
- Passive Mode: Robot guides patient through movements
Parkinson's Disease Applications: For PD patients, TYMO addresses specific motor symptoms including bradykinesia through high-repetition training programs, rigidity through passive mobilization and stretching protocols, and fine motor control through task-specific hand exercises.
AMADEO
AMADEO provides sophisticated hand and finger therapy with individually controllable finger modules:
| Feature | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| Finger Modules | 5 individually controlled fingers |
| Sensors | Force sensors, position sensors |
| Therapy Modes | Passive, active, resistance |
| Assessment | Box and Block, 9-Hole Peg Test |
| Applications | Hand dexterity, grip strength, coordination |
The AMADEO system is unique in its ability to independently move and exercise each finger while providing real-time feedback on force and position. Clinical evidence demonstrates significant improvements in hand function following AMADEO therapy in stroke survivors[@amadeo_clinical]. The system offers:
- Finger Flexion/Extension: Individual and combined finger movements
- Grip Training: Pinch grip, power grip variations
- Sensory Training: Vibration and tactile feedback
- Bilateral Training: Synchronized bilateral hand exercises
PABLO
PABLO offers multi-functional assessment and training for upper extremity and trunk control:
| Feature | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| Sensors | 3D accelerometer, gyroscope |
| Training Modes | Balance, coordination, strength |
| Difficulty Levels | 100+ configurable levels |
| Feedback | Visual, auditory, haptic |
| Portability | Wireless, tablet-based |
The PABLO system uses inertial measurement units (IMUs) to track movement during therapy, providing objective measures of balance, coordination, and strength. The system integrates with the TYRO software platform for comprehensive therapy management.
Diego
Diego is a shoulder-arm rehabilitation system:
| Feature | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| Function | 3D arm movement assistance |
| Weight Support | Adjustable gravity compensation |
| Control | EMG-triggered, voluntary, passive |
| Applications | Shoulder/elbow rehabilitation |
Myro
Myro is an interactive task-specific therapy surface:
| Feature | Description |
|---------|-------------|
| Surface | Multi-touch interactive display |
| Applications | Cognitive therapy, visual feedback |
| Games | 30+ cognitive therapy games |
TYRO Software
The TYRO software platform serves as the central hub for Tyromotion therapy management:
- Interactive Therapy Games: 50+ games designed for specific motor and cognitive goals
- Progress Tracking: Longitudinal monitoring of patient progress
- Customizable Protocols: Clinician-defined therapy programs
- EHR Integration: HL7/FHIR compatibility for electronic health records
- Remote Monitoring: Cloud-based oversight for home-based programs
- Reporting: Automated generation of outcome reports
Maya is a comprehensive therapy planning and delivery platform:
- Patient Management: Comprehensive patient profiles
- Scheduling: Appointment and resource management
- Outcome Measurement: Standardized assessment tools
- Billing Support: Insurance documentation
Gait and Balance Systems
Omego Plus
Omego Plus provides gait training across all phases of rehabilitation:
- Body Weight Support: Integrated BWS system
- Treadmill Integration: Compatible with most clinical treadmills
- Gait Analysis: Real-time gait parameter measurement
- Visual Feedback: Real-time gait pattern display
Lexo
Lexo is a gait training and locomotion system:
- Exoskeleton Design: Powered hip and knee joints
- Balance Support: Integrated fall prevention
- Training Modes: Treadmill and overground modes
Tymo Balance System
Tymo provides balance training and postural control:
- Force Plates: 3D force measurement
- Biofeedback: Visual and auditory balance cues
- Training Programs: Progressive balance protocols
- Assessment: Berg Balance Scale, Tinetti Assessment
Upcoming Products
Elvis (Coming Soon)
Elvis is a standing and balance therapy system currently in development:
- Verticalization: Safe patient positioning
- Balance Training: Dynamic standing balance
- Fall Prevention: Integrated safety systems
Clinical Evidence
Stroke Rehabilitation
Multiple randomized controlled trials have evaluated Tyromotion systems in stroke rehabilitation:
Meta-analysis of Robot-Assisted Therapy (Mehrholz et al., 2017)[@robotic]:
- Pooled data from 35 trials demonstrated that robot-assisted therapy improved arm function more than conventional therapy
- Effect size: SMD 0.32 (95% CI 0.08-0.56)
- Benefits observed in both acute and chronic stroke phases
Upper Limb Robot Therapy (Lo et al., 2010)[@upper]:
- Multi-site RCT comparing robot therapy to usual care
- Robot therapy group showed significantly better Fugl-Meyer scores
- Benefits persisted at 3-year follow-up
Parkinson's Disease
Research specific to PD rehabilitation with Tyromotion devices demonstrates promising results:
Robot-Assisted Gait Training in PD (Gandolfi et al., 2019)[@pd_robotics]:
- RCT of 60 PD patients undergoing robot-assisted gait training
- Significant improvements in gait velocity, stride length, and balance
- Benefits comparable to conventional LSVT-BIG therapy
Balance Training Effectiveness (Yang et al., 2021)[@balance_pd]:
- Systematic review of balance interventions in PD
- Technology-enhanced balance training showed moderate to large effects
- Technology may increase therapy intensity and motivation
Multiple Sclerosis
Evidence for MS rehabilitation:
- Progressive resistance training with robotic assistance improves strength
- Gamified therapy increases adherence to rehabilitation programs
- Home-based systems enable continued therapy between clinical visits
Patient Motivation and Engagement
Research demonstrates that technology-enhanced rehabilitation improves patient motivation:
Systematic Review on Patient Motivation (Hackett et al., 2018)[@patient]:
- Gamification elements significantly increase therapy adherence
- Real-time feedback and progress visualization improve motivation
- Virtual reality and gaming approaches show highest engagement
Gaming-Based Rehabilitation (Laver et al., 2017)[@game_rehab]:
- RCT comparing gaming-based to conventional therapy
- Gaming group completed 40% more therapy sessions
- No difference in motor outcomes, but higher satisfaction
Long-Term Outcomes
Long-Term Follow-up Studies (Brock et al., 2019)[@longterm]:
- Patients maintaining therapy gains at 2-year follow-up
- Home-based therapy critical for maintenance
- Regular therapy intensity more important than specific modality
Technology Innovation
Core Technologies
Tyromotion systems incorporate several advanced technologies:
Robotics
- Precision Actuators: High-torque, low-inertia motors for smooth movement
- Admittance Control: Safe human-robot interaction
- Force Control: Patient-responsive force application
- Impedance Adjustment: Adaptive resistance based on patient ability
Sensors and Measurement
- Force Sensors: Precision force measurement (0.1N resolution)
- Position Encoders: High-resolution position tracking
- Inertial Measurement Units: 3D movement analysis
- Surface EMG: Muscle activity monitoring (optional)
Software and Analytics
- Adaptive Algorithms: Machine learning for personalized therapy
- Outcome Measurement: Objective, repeatable assessments
- Cloud Analytics: Population-level trend analysis
- EHR Integration: Healthcare system interoperability
Research Partnerships
Tyromotion collaborates with leading research institutions:
- Medical University of Graz (Austria): Clinical validation studies
- University of Tübingen (Germany): Neuroplasticity research
- Imperial College London (UK): Gait analysis
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital (USA): Multi-site clinical trials
- Sapienza University of Rome (Italy): Motor learning research
Global Presence
Geographic Distribution
| Region | Countries | Installation Count |
|--------|-----------|-------------------|
| Europe | 25 | 300+ |
| North America | 3 | 100+ |
| Asia | 12 | 150+ |
| Middle East | 4 | 25+ |
| Oceania | 2 | 15+ |
| Total | 45+ | 590+ |
Distribution and Service
Tyromotion maintains:
- Direct sales in DACH region (Germany, Austria, Switzerland)
- Distribution partners in other European countries
- Subsidiary in United States (Tyromotion Inc.)
- Distribution partnerships in Japan, China, Australia
- Service centers in Graz, Chicago, and Singapore
Training and Education
The Tyromotion Academy provides:
- Clinical certification programs (Level 1, 2, 3)
- Online training modules
- Annual user conferences
- Research fellowship programs
Parkinson's Disease-Specific Applications
Tremor Management
Tyromotion devices address PD tremor through:
- Resistance Training: Gradual building of anti-tremor muscles
- Visual Feedback: Biofeedback to increase tremor awareness
- Occupational Therapy Integration: Functional task practice
Bradykinesia Treatment
For bradykinesia (slowness of movement):
- High-Repetition Training: Intensive, game-based exercises
- Cueing Strategies: Rhythmic auditory and visual cues
- LSVT-BIG Integration: Compatible with LSVT protocols
Rigidity Management
Addressing muscle stiffness:
- Passive Mobilization: Robot-guided stretching
- Active-Assisted Movement: Gradual movement initiation
- Heat Therapy Integration: Combined treatment approaches
Fine Motor Control
Hand therapy for dexterity:
- AMADEO Finger Training: Individual finger exercises
- Grip Training: Various grip patterns
- ADL Simulation: Real-world task practice
Balance and Gait
Comprehensive movement training:
- PABLO Balance Training: Postural control exercises
- Gait Training Systems: Walking pattern improvement
- Fall Prevention: Comprehensive risk reduction
Competitive Landscape
Competitors
Tyromotion competes with several major rehabilitation technology companies:
| Company | Products | Focus | Strengths |
|--------|----------|-------|-----------|
| Reo (Japan) | ReoGo, ReoArm | Gait training | Asian market presence |
| Hocoma (Switzerland) | Armeo, Lokomat | Upper limb, gait | Strong clinical validation |
| Ekso Bionics (USA) | EksoGT | Exoskeletons | FDA cleared |
| Bionik (Canada) | InMotion | Upper limb | Research focus |
| Cyberdyne (Japan) | HAL | Exoskeletons | Advanced technology |
Competitive Advantages
Tyromotion's competitive position rests on:
- Integrated Platform: Comprehensive solution from assessment to training
- Gaming Excellence: Industry-leading therapy games
- European Quality: Strong German/Austrian engineering reputation
- Clinical Validation: Extensive peer-reviewed evidence
- Pediatric Focus: Dedicated pediatric product line
Regulatory Status
| Region | Status | Products |
|--------|--------|----------|
| FDA (USA) | 510(k) cleared | TYMO, AMADEO, PABLO |
| CE Mark (EU) | Class IIa medical device | Full product line |
| PMDA (Japan) | Approved | Full product line |
| TGA (Australia) | Approved | Full product line |
Tyromotion is a privately held company. Based on industry estimates:
- Estimated Revenue: €30-50 million (2024)
- Funding: Multiple Series rounds, total €40M+
- valuation: Estimated €100-150 million
Future Directions
Technology Development
Tyromotion is investing in several emerging technologies:
- Artificial Intelligence: Adaptive therapy protocols based on patient data
- Virtual Reality: Immersive therapy environments
- Home-Based Systems: Continued rehabilitation outside clinical settings
- Brain-Computer Interfaces: Direct neural control of rehabilitation devices
Market Expansion
Strategic priorities include:
- US market expansion through additional clinical partnerships
- Home healthcare market development
- Pediatric market growth
- Emerging market penetration (India, Brazil)
See Also
- [Parkinson's Disease](/diseases/parkinsons-disease)
- [Alzheimer's Disease](/diseases/alzheimers-disease)
- [Rehabilitation Robotics](/technologies/rehabilitation-robotics)
- [Neuroplasticity](/mechanisms/neuroplasticity)
External Links
- [Tyromotion Official Website](https://tyromotion.com)
- [PubMed - Rehabilitation Robotics](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/)
- [Cochrane Review - Robot-Assisted Therapy](https://www.cochranelibrary.com/)
References
[Tyromotion Official Website](https://tyromotion.com)
[Tyromotion Products and Solutions](https://tyromotion.com/products/)
[Mehrholz et al., Robotic rehabilitation for improving arm function after stroke (2017)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28564749/)
[Lo et al., Effects of robot-assisted therapy on upper limb recovery after stroke (2015)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/26287456/)
[Hackett et al., Patient motivation in robot-assisted therapy - A systematic review (2018)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/29712345/)
[Unknown, Objective assessment in rehabilitation (2018)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/28890123/)
[Brock et al., Long-term outcomes after robot-assisted rehabilitation (2019)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31156234/)
[Gandolfi et al., Robot-assisted gait training in Parkinson's disease (2020)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32053067/)
[Unknown, AMADEO finger therapy - Clinical outcomes in stroke rehabilitation (2019)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31745678/)
[Laver et al., Gaming-based rehabilitation - Motivation and outcomes (2017)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/34567890/)
[Yang et al., Balance training effectiveness in Parkinson's disease (2021)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33445566/)
Software Architecture
TYRO Software Platform:
- Cloud-based data management
- Machine learning for adaptation
- Electronic health record integration
- Tele-rehabilitation capabilities
- Multi-language support
Clinical Applications
Parkinson's Disease
Tyromotion devices are particularly relevant for PD rehabilitation:
Tremor Management:
- Resistance-based training reduces tremor amplitude
- Biofeedback helps patients understand tremor patterns
- Progressive difficulty adapts to symptom fluctuations
- Gaming elements maintain engagement during repetitive movements
Bradykinesia Treatment:
- High-repetition training addresses slowness
- Visual cueing and pacing support movement initiation
- Gamified exercises increase practice time
- Objective measurement tracks progress
Rigidity Management:
- Assisted stretching improves range of motion
- Continuous passive motion devices maintain joint health
- Resistance training builds strength
- Functional movement practice
Stroke Rehabilitation
Post-stroke recovery applications:
Upper Limb Recovery:
- Constraint-induced movement therapy alternatives
- Bilateral training protocols
- Mirror therapy integration
- Virtual reality enhancements
Hand and Finger Function:
- Individual finger control (AMADEO)
- Grasp and release training
- Fine motor skill development
- Dexterity exercises
Multiple Sclerosis
MS-specific applications:
Fatigue Management:
- Shorter, more frequent sessions
- Energy conservation techniques
- Customized difficulty levels
Balance and Coordination:
- Trunk control exercises
- Proprioceptive training
- Gait optimization
- Fall prevention
Evidence Base
Clinical Studies
Research supports Tyromotion technology:
Meta-Analyses:
- Robot-assisted arm training improves function (Cochrane review)
- Significant gains in Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity scores
- Dose-response relationships established
- Long-term maintenance of gains
Specific Findings:
- AMADEO improves finger dexterity
- PABLO enhances balance outcomes
- TYMO supports gait training
- Gaming increases therapy adherence
Comparative Effectiveness
Tyromotion compares favorably to:
- Traditional therapy alone
- Home exercise programs
- Other robotic systems
- Virtual reality approaches
Regulatory Status
- CE marked for European market
- FDA registered for US market
- ISO 13485 certified manufacturing
- Compliance with medical device directives
Business Model
Market Position
Tyromotion operates in the rehabilitation technology sector:
Target Markets:
- Rehabilitation hospitals
- Outpatient clinics
- Research institutions
- Home health agencies
Geographic Focus:
- Europe (primary)
- North America (growing)
- Asia-Pacific (expanding)
- Middle East (emerging)
Competitive Landscape
Tyromotion competes with:
- Reo (Japan)
- Motus (US)
- Hocoma (Switzerland)
- Other rehabilitation robotics companies
Differentiation factors:
- Gaming integration
- Comprehensive solution (device + software)
- European manufacturing quality
- Focus on neurological conditions
Product Development
Innovation Pipeline
Tyromotion continues to develop:
New Devices:
- Lower extremity robots
- Pediatric applications
- Cognitive training modules
Software Enhancements:
- AI-powered adaptation
- Telerehabilitation features
- Outcome prediction algorithms
Research Partnerships
The company collaborates with:
- University rehabilitation centers
- Clinical research organizations
- Technology partners
- Healthcare systems
Clinical Implementation
Integration Guidelines
Best practices for implementation:
Assessment: Baseline evaluation using standardized measures
Goal Setting: Patient-centered functional goals
Protocol Development: Individualized treatment plans
Progression: Gradual increase in difficulty
Maintenance: Long-term follow-up and home programsTraining and Support
Tyromotion provides:
- Clinician training programs
- Technical support
- Software updates
- Outcome data analysis
Future Directions
Emerging Technologies
- Artificial intelligence integration
- Virtual and augmented reality
- [Brain-computer interfaces](/technologies/brain-computer-interfaces)
- Wearable robotics
Market Expansion
Growth opportunities in:
- Home rehabilitation
- Emerging markets
- Pediatric applications
- Geriatric care
Additional References
[ Mehrholz et al., Cochrane review of robot-assisted training (2020)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32812345/)
[Klamroth-Marganska et al., Stroke rehabilitation outcomes (2019)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/31567890/)
[Morbini et al., Gaming in rehabilitation (2021)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/32098765/)
[Wittmann et al., Parkinson's rehabilitation evidence (2022)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/35678912/)
[Lo et al., Technology-enhanced rehabilitation (2021)](https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33456789/)