VibeTech

VibeTech earns Forward BIOLABS ICP Award

Wed, 11 Feb 2026 05:57:01 GMT

February 3, 2026

Forward BIOLABS has announced the first round of awardees for its Innovation to Commercialization Pipeline (ICP) program , a new initiative designed to help early-stage biohealth companies across Wisconsin move closer to market readiness.

The ICP program provides targeted, non-dilutive support to startups working to translate scientific innovation into commercial products. The program is aimed at companies navigating early commercialization challenges, including regulatory strategy, intellectual property development, scale-up planning and investment readiness.

Forward BIOLABS announced that 18 emerging biohealth companies were selected in the program’s inaugural round. Each company received between $25,000 and $75,000 in non-dilutive funding, with award amounts tailored to the specific commercialization needs of each business.

The selected companies span a wide range of biohealth sectors, including medical devices, diagnostics, biomanufacturing, life sciences, pharmaceuticals and radiopharmaceuticals. Collectively, the awardees reflect both Wisconsin’s established strengths in imaging and healthcare technologies and growing momentum in highly investable areas such as AI-enabled platforms and radiopharmaceutical development.

ICP Round 1 awardees

Archeus Technologies (Madison) – Developing radiopharmaceutical therapies and imaging agents for oncology.
Arkayli Biopharma (Madison) – Developing targeted precision drug delivery for pediatric rare skin and vascular diseases.
Axio Biopharma (Madison) – Building an AI-ready biologics CDMO with a cross-site data ecosystem.
AyrFlo Innovation Labs (Madison) – Developing a noninvasive wearable breathing sensor to detect post-surgical deterioration.
Crainosure (Madison) – Developing a smartphone app to help primary care providers screen infants for head shape differences.
Estrigenix Therapeutics ( Milwaukee) – Developing drugs to treat symptoms associated with menopause.
ImgGyd (Middleton) – Developing hardware and software for image-guided placement of minimally invasive brain electrodes and catheters.
Immuto Scientific (Madison) – Building an automated, high-throughput platform for protein characterization in cells and solutions.
Kivi Bio (Kenosha) – Supporting early-stage and scaling biohealth companies lacking access to biomanufacturing equipment.
Phoenix-Aid (Madison) – Developing advanced wound care dressings using patented nanocomposite materials.
Refined Sciences (Madison) – Specializing in bioprocessing components and assemblies for the biopharmaceutical industry.
Retham Technologies (Milwaukee) – Developing a diagnostic test for heparin-induced thrombocytopenia to reduce patient risk.
Roddy Medical (Milwaukee) – Developing medical line securement technology focused on improving patient safety.
Sonoptima (Milwaukee) – Developing a wearable, AI-enabled ultrasound technology for radiation therapy timing.
Soul Mobility (Oconomowoc) – Building mobility products for users in the complex rehabilitation wheelchair market.
Stem Pharm (Fitchburg) – Developing small-molecule therapies for neuroinflammatory diseases, including Alzheimer’s disease.
Varizymes (Middleton) – Developing rapid point-of-care molecular diagnostic reagents.
Vibetech Enterprises (Sheboygan) – Developing rehabilitation technology to improve physical mobility and safe exercise access.

Funding for the ICP program is supported through state-matched Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub funding under 2023 WI Act 96. The program is one of five initiatives that make up the Wisconsin Biohealth Tech Hub, which aims to strengthen the state’s biohealth ecosystem and accelerate company growth statewide.

Awardees were selected through a competitive review process by the ICP Award Committee, a group of volunteer industry leaders from across Wisconsin’s biohealth and investment communities. The committee was led by Jessica Martin Eckerly , CEO and co-founder of Forward BIOLABS , and Lisa Johnson , CEO of BioForward Wisconsin, and included Brad Garcia , director of strategy and operations at AbbVie ; Elizabeth Hagerman , chief innovation officer at UW Health and executive director of the Isthmus Project ; Jay Hill , retired vice president of advanced technology at GE Healthcare ; Jenni Le , principal at Venture Investors Health Fund ; Jill Enos , managing partner at TitletownTech ; Justin Krause , vice president of global operations coordination and integrations at Exact Sciences ; Laura Hilty , principal at HealthX Ventures ; Nicolas Paris , CEO of Gilson ; and Sarah Duellman , biotech industry strategy and growth lead at Promega . Forward BIOLABS said the committee evaluated applications based on commercialization readiness, proposed use of funds and potential impact on Wisconsin’s biohealth sector.

Martin Eckerly said the selected companies represent a group that is not only working in emerging areas of biohealth but also nearing key moments of commercial impact.

“The winners here really include companies that are at the cutting edge of industry. They are the next wave of technologies,” she said. Several of the awardees are approaching regulatory milestones, scale-up decisions or initial commercialization efforts, making the ICP awards a timely form of support rather than a general infusion of capital.

She added that the cohort reflects a broader strength of Wisconsin’s innovation ecosystem, where companies tend to focus on execution and technical progress before seeking visibility. She noted the ICP program is designed to support companies that are already doing the work and need targeted resources to move forward, reinforcing Wisconsin’s reputation as a place where biohealth innovations are built and validated.

A second round of ICP awards is planned for 2026.

VibeTech partners with Blitz Proto to produce VibeTech 3 portable therapeutic vibration device

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 09 Feb 2024 17:20:14 GMT

VibeTech, Blitz Proto gear up to launch VibeTech 3

SHEBOYGAN, WIS. February 12, 2024 – A new manufacturing agreement with Blitz Proto has put Sheboygan, Wis.-based VibeTech on track to begin production of its new portable therapeutic vibration device – the VibeTech 3.

Conceptualized in 2001 under the vision and leadership of CEO and Founder Jeff Leismer, VibeTech is intensely focused on the development of therapeutic vibration technology dedicated to helping older adults in reducing falls and increasing their level of mobility.

After producing the VibeTech 1, VibeTech 2 and VibeSitePRO therapeutic vibration devices in recent years, Leismer and Blitz Proto President Beau-James joined forces in 2023 in an effort to jump start production of the new VibeTech 3 portable therapeutic vibration device.

“Blitz Proto started working on design cost reductions for the VibeTech 3 in 2023,” Leismer said. “We engaged them in engineering redesign when it became apparent that engineering updates were required to accommodate changes in critical parts that became unavailable. [Blitz Proto President] Beau-James Erion is the one who spearheaded the manufacturing cost reductions that enable the VibeTech 3 to be sold at roughly half the price of what we previously expected.

“They are now working on completing the first production prototype VibeTech 3,” he said. “We anticipate a first batch of production devices from Blitz Proto at the end of March.”

Erion says Blitz Proto has relished the opportunity to offer design and engineering assistance in collaborating with Leismer and VibeTech on a more cost-effective version of the VibeTech 3.

“Blitz Proto specializes in prototype design and engineering,” Erion said. “We provide 3-D printing, machining and a combination of prototyping services to produce products such as the VibeTech 3, which require prototype design and implementation for new or existing concepts while utilizing additional resources and expertise to get to the manufacturing stage. We also specialize in custom lighting solutions, automotive design and electronics.”

According to Erion, aligning with VibeTech provides a perfect fit for Blitz Proto, which is headquartered in Farmington Hills, Mich.

“We started working with Jeff on electronics CM [configuration management],” Erion said. “Through that, VibeTech discovered we have more capabilities than just mechanical design services.

“Both Jeff and I have strong ideals in common regarding the development of products, as well as complementary skill sets and knowledge, which made the idea of working together even more appealing,” he said. “I was initially drawn to VibeTech’s strong sense of moral fiber. It is simply a good idea for Blitz Proto to work with VibeTech. We want to help make the VibeTech 3 a reality.”

The upcoming year promises to be a busy one for VibeTech and Blitz Proto as they collaborate to bring the VibeTech 3 to the final production stage.

“We have been engaging with VibeTech in research and design activities and are finishing next generation units for release this year,” Erion said. “We are ramping up our production plans and procedures, as well as expanding facilities and equipment as necessary to both meet the needs of VibeTech and the demand for VibeTech products.

“So far we have struck an efficient balance between engineering and cost-effective design,” he said. “We have been working with both of our resources to ensure sustainable design at a price point that can satisfy our customers in a very demanding industry.”

Leismer is eager to see VibeTech’s alliance with Blitz Proto come to full fruition in 2024.

“I'm delighted to work with Blitz Proto because not only did they dramatically reduce production costs while at the same time enhancing the VibeTech 3's quality and functionality, but they also treat me and the VibeTech team like family,” Leismer said. “Their team is a highly creative, uniquely innovative and a technologically savvy bunch, so VibeTech fits right in.”

Erion is equally enthusiastic about the potential growth and development of the Blitz Proto-VibeTech collaboration.

“Working with VibeTech has been a refreshing experience,” Erion said. “We are mixing the brute force of intellectual capability, talent and clear vision for the future. It is exciting to work with a group with similar values, motility and veracity.”

More information on VibeTech can be found at www.vibetechglobal.com.

For more details on Blitz Proto’s partnership with VibeTech, visit www.blitzproto.com/vibetech/.

ABOUT VIBETECH

VibeTech is a NASA Spinoff medical device company located in Sheboygan, Wis. The FDA-listed, patented therapeutic vibration technology is designed to treat individuals with muscle weakness, impaired balance, reduced mobility and pain. It does this conveniently from the comfort of a chair or wheelchair, with or without the user putting forth effort. This solution maximizes efficiencies of care staff by engaging family members where possible to improve outcomes and provide a rewarding, interactive, engaging experience to all. The immediate and long-term benefits of treatment which have been observed and published are unprecedented in the senior living industry, because the age and frailty of VibeTech’s end users typically precludes the reversal of atrophy, decline and pain experienced even when receiving standard care. Over 20,000 Medicare and insurance reimbursed treatments have been provided safely to date, bolstering the company’s goal of establishing the new standard of care for older adults most at risk of falls and fall-related injuries.

For more information on VibeTech, visit www.vibetechglobal.com.

ABOUT BLITZ PROTO

Blitz Proto was founded in 2022 by engineers with a vision of innovating the prototype service market in Southeast Michigan. Blitz Proto opened its current location in Farmington Hills, Mich. in March 2023. With the purpose of meeting the prototyping needs of local and national customers, Blitz Proto is committed to providing full-service prototype support across industries. With expertise in design and engineering, Blitz Proto is able to take a prototype from an idea to a production part with full service, including CAD designs and 3D models to initiate proof of concept. Blitz Proto’s partners bring years of conventional and CNC milling experience. Manufacturing capabilities are specifically designed for high-speed machining of smaller components, while implementing a number of work holding and material management strategies that also contribute to the overall process efficiency.

For more information on Blitz Proto, visit www.blitzproto.com.

VibeTech showcased in new WSCS program 'Technology to Advance Healthy Communities'

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 19 Aug 2022 19:13:59 GMT

The new WSCS program "Technology to Advance Healthy Communities" features (pictured left to right) Generations, Intergenerational Center Executive Director Jane Brill, VibeTech Founder and CEO Jeff Leismer and Rocky Knoll Health Care Center Life Enrichment Director Janine Bolz.

VibeTech's therapeutic vibration technology and new portable VibeSitPRO device serve as the centerpiece of a new WSCS, Sheboygan Community Station program titled "Technology to Advance Healthy Communities" now available for viewing on WSCS's YouTube channel at https://youtu.be/1uNt6Bq0UtA .

Jane Brill, executive director of Generations, Intergenerational Center in Plymouth, Wis. serves as the program host with Rocky Knoll Health Care Center Life Enrichment Director Janine Bolz and VibeTech Founder and CEO Jeff Leismer serving as guests for the “Technology to Advance Healthy Communities” show, which was taped at the WSCS, Sheboygan Community Station studio in Sheboygan, Wis. on Tuesday, Aug. 16.

The 20-minute program includes a video of VibeTech's new mobile VibeSitPRO device and a discussion of the array of benefits that Brill, Bolz and Leismer have personally experienced or seen with individuals using the device.

At Rocky Knoll, Bolz shared the positive impact of VibeTech's therapeutic vibration technology on the memory care residents participating in a recent quality management study to reduce falls. '

Rocky Knoll has been utilizing the stationery VibeTech device for several years with individuals who have limited ability to exercise in the traditional manner since the devices require no exertion by the user. Rocky Knoll staff members have given significant input, based on their experiences, to help finalize development of the new VibeSitPRO to enhance ease of use for anyone through the use of any type of chair or wheelchair to maximize and track results.

This collaboration of health care facilities and organizations offering new technology have proven to be a winning formula for patients and their families, or volunteers, who can easily assist and share in the benefits

VibeTech's Linda Cates is the executive producer of the program.

The full schedule of future show air dates and times is available on the WSCS website at https://www.wscssheboygan.com/schedule/ .

VibeTech explores partnerships to help slow Parkinson's progression

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 18 Feb 2022 20:27:30 GMT

Parkinson’s disease is a progressive nervous system disorder that affects movement.

The Accelerated Movement for Parkinson’s “AMP” Project out of Gregory Boxing is a boxing program designed for people with Parkinson’s to use physical and mental exercise to better manage their lives with the disease.

According to The National Institute of Health (NIH), exercise and physical activity are believed to promote neural plasticity for individuals with Parkinson’s disease, along with the potential to slow the disease’s progression. Boxing for Parkinson’s disease has recently received increased attention across the globe.

Along with the positive impact of the AMP Project, VibeTech’s VibeSitPRO portable therapeutic vibration rehabilitation device is well-suited for use by people living with Parkinson’s disease.

For information on the AMP program, contact Marty Maibuecher at maibuecher@asmchicago.com.

VibeTech launches collaborative study with Florida State University

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 28 Jan 2022 18:47:21 GMT

VibeTech has entered into a new collaboration with Florida State University.

VibeTech is working with Dr. Lynn Panton, Mia Kay Newlin Ph.D., RN., M.S.N., and Dr. Paul Katz, along with VibeTech’s Medical Advisor, Dr. Terry Sullivan on this collaboration.

Dr. Panton’s research interests are in the area of exercise training and its effects on body composition, muscular strength and functional outcomes of healthy older adults and chronically diseased populations.

Dr. Newlin-Bradner’s initial educational pursuits were in the field of exercise physiology. Dr. Newlin-Bradner then pursued nursing and obtained her Bachelor of Science degree in nursing from Florida State University followed by an Master of Science degree in nursing education from Florida State University.

Dr. Newlin-Bradner’s research interest is focused on the role of activity in the prevention and management of chronic disease, with a specific emphasis on women with heart failure with preserved ejection fraction.

Dr. Katz has been practicing geriatrics for 36 years. He chose geriatrics because there was a great need for geriatric specialists, the patients’ medical conditions are complex and it is a fairly new specialty.

Through the collaboration, VibeTech and the Florida State University will study the benefits of the VibeSitPro - a safe, pain-free way to activate muscles impacted by atrophy and restore physical function due to age, injury, or surgery for all ages.

VibeTech is currently preparing to launch its new VibeSitPRO with the first five portable therapeutic vibration rehabilitation devices set to be delivered in the first quarter of 2022.

VibeTech nominated for Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce Manufacturer of the Year Award

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 21 Jan 2022 17:18:21 GMT

Late VibeTech CFO Ed Morgan (second left) and VibeTech CEO and Founder Jeff Leismer (second right) accept the Wisconsin Innovation Award in 2017, which was presented by BioForward Executive Director, Lisa Johnson (far left).

VibeTech has been distinguished with a nomination for the 2021 Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce Manufacturer of the Year Award set to be showcased at the annual Sheboygan County Chamber Champions Gala on Thursday, Feb. 10 at The Osthoff Resort in Elkhart Lake, Wis.

As a first-time Sheboygan County Chamber of Commerce Manufacturer of the Year Award nominee, VibeTech, a therapeutic vibration technology company based in Sheboygan, Wis., was selected for this distinction from close to 900 member companies.

A group of Sheboygan County Chamber volunteers will make the final selection of the recipient of the 2021 Manufacturer of the Year Award winner among the field of five 2021 nominees before an audience of 600 guests during the Sheboygan County Chamber Champions Gala on Feb. 10.

VibeTech is currently preparing to launch its new VibeSitPRO portable therapeutic vibration rehabilitation device in the first uarter of 2

Older adults have increased strength, range of motion, foot sensation from VibeTech treatments

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 14 Jan 2022 14:27:45 GMT

The results are in!

In a local clinical study using VibeTech’s brand new AutoDosing™ therapeutic vibration protocol, neuropathy symptoms decreased significantly after each treatment.

This builds on previous studies demonstrating increased strength, balance, range of motion and walking speed in older adults, as well as decreased pain and evidence of fewer falls in at-risk individuals.

Strength is critically important to maintaining quality of life as a person ages, and the VibeSitPRO provides the ability for millions who have difficulty exercising to improve their strength.

Study participant comments:

· * I feel like I am doing something positive for my health. I am always in better spirits after I have a treatment.

· * My ankles no longer hurt at the end of the day like they used to.

· * I’m able to stand much longer.

· * It feels like my legs are much looser.

· * I notice it’s much easier to walk down the hallway after a treatment.

· * My knee doesn’t give out as frequently as it used to.

· * I love how the device makes my legs feel.

VibeTech and collaborator Rocky Knoll Health Care Center in Plymouth, Wis. will launch the final phase of the long-term study with the delivery of the first two VibeSitPRO devices in early 2022.

Dr. Terry Sullivan values VibeTech medical advisor role

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 07 Jan 2022 19:38:21 GMT

Dr. Terry Sullivan has been working in an advisory capacity with VibeTech in cooperation with Michael Best Strategies for the past year. He comes from a background of practice in multiple areas of American healthcare and has most recently been involved in all levels of senior care delivery and information systems.

Of VibeTech, Dr. Sullivan has said, “The opportunity to work with the VibeTech team is important for me, as the company has a technology that can benefit seniors and those with chronic illness at all stages of life and disease progression. The company, additionally, has a leadership team that can bring that vision to fruition.”

Service to seniors and those with chronic illness will be at the forefront as VibeTech continues research studies and clinical development. Dr. Sullivan will be a valuable asset to the VibeTech team as the company explores multiple areas of commercialization.

“The only things that help improve every condition are exercise and nutrition, and VibeTech makes exercise accessible to everyone whatever their condition,” Sullivan said.

VibeTech pays tribute to CFO Ed Morgan

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Thu, 16 Dec 2021 23:09:47 GMT

Dear Friends,

No words can express the sadness we feel with Ed Morgan's passing. Ed dedicated the last many years of his life to VibeTech, working hard to ensure that our technology could emerge from its humble beginnings to become the standard of care for people unable to stand or walk on their own.

As our CFO, he crunched the numbers and plotted our financial course. He kept an eye on our future and found ways of bringing life to our fledgling startup that required complex and creative thinking. Ed liked to tell any business prospects that he felt the reason he survived his initial battle with cancer was because he needed to stay alive to help VibeTech succeed. “It was divine intervention,” he said.

We have succeeded in creating a technology that has made a lot of people stronger with less pain. That would not have been possible without Ed. Now we carry on in his absence, aiming to make family and friends proud of the company of which he is such an essential part. Thank you, Ed, for your dedication, your passion, your wisdom, and your friendship.

Let’s all take a deep breath in to absorb the kindness and joy Ed brought into our lives. As we breathe out, let those memories solidify and bring a smile to our faces every time they resurface.

Rest in peace, Ed. As you would say, "Onward and upward."

-Jeff Leismer and Team

Link to Ed’s obituary: https://reinboldfh.com/obituaries/edward-ed-morgan/

Exercise for those who can't

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Wed, 15 Sep 2021 00:25:45 GMT

VibeTech’s therapeutic vibration boosts strength and reduces falls

VibeTech has taken what it learned from the sessions with thousands of patients and turned it into its smartest device yet, the VibeSit™PRO.

VibeSit™PRO is VibeTech’s answer to the call to reduce falls in the highest risk older adults. It activates the muscles throughout the legs using safe and effective, patient-specific (Smart Dosing™) therapeutic vibration. The exercise is delivered through a footplate to a seated user. There is no transfer needed for wheelchair users.

This portable device can be disinfected and brought to individual patient rooms or it can be placed in a rehab gym or other common space to boost strength and function while reducing pain in the lower extremities.

VibeSit™PRO is intended for both rehabilitative and restorative care purposes. VibeSit™PRO sessions are safe, effective, accessible, and reimbursable, and have been shown to reduce falls, boost strength, elevate mood and reduce pain in memory care residents, who are twice as likely to fall as other nursing home residents.

VibeTech gears up for fourth quarter 2021 VibeSit PRO release

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Wed, 11 Aug 2021 01:57:31 GMT

New portable therapeutic vibration device to launch

VibeTech’s VibeSit PRO portable therapeutic vibration device is slated for an October 2021 release.

The VibeSit PRO incorporates precisely targeted therapeutic vibration to provide the benefits of “exercise without effort” to older adults, who have difficulty standing and walking.

The VibeSit PRO enables the user to remain in their wheelchair or favorite chair, while they rapidly progress, reversing the affects of dysmobility to reduce the risk of fall and fall-related injuries.

A unique-to-VibeTech feature is Smart Dosing, which is a real-time dosing adjustment based on patient ability.

The VibeSit PRO is intended for both rehabilitative and restorative care purposes. Treatments with VibeTech’s technology are safe, effective, accessible and reimbursable, and they have been shown to reduce falls, boost strength, elevate mood and reduce pain in memory care residents, who are twice as likely to fall as other nursing home residents.

VibeTech, Landmark Square team up to help older adults get back on their feet

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 28 May 2021 22:47:08 GMT

VibeTech launches study at Landmark Square

VibeTech recently joined forces with Landmark Square independent living condominiums in Sheboygan, Wis. to conduct a 12-week therapeutic vibration study targeting the lower body and designed to help older adults in preventing falls and increasing mobility.

In early February, 36 Landmark Square residents volunteered to participate in the 12-week program, which wrapped up on May 11.

“We made the study available to everyone and we received 36 positive responses,” Landmark Square President Jim Holmes said. “The study was set up with one person using the machine with one facilitator from VibeTech in a one-on-one environment with both wearing masks.

“I firmly believe that quite a few people will benefit from VibeTech’s therapeutic vibration device and we are already seeing a lot of positives come from the program with our residents having this as something to look forward to, which also makes them feel good and improves their level of mobility,” he said.

Holmes himself has been among the participants in the study and has already noticed a difference in his level of mobility.

“I’ve had times when I dropped my keys, for instance, and had trouble getting down to get them,” Holmes said. ‘Since I’ve starting using the VibeTech device, I’ve notice improved range of motion, especially with my bending motion.

“Using the machine makes me feel good that I’m not depending on anything but my own mobility to get around and do things like bend over to pick up my keys. My feeling is that there are a lot of people that really need this and will benefit from it greatly.”

Holmes is very optimistic about the impact VibeTech’s therapeutic vibration technology can make for those with mobility issues.

“I met VibeTech CEO and Founder Jeff Leismer at an Alzheimer’s Advocacy Day event in Madison two years ago,” Holmes said. “He told me about VibeTech’s development of therapeutic vibration technology that is focused on helping older adults with reducing falls and increase their level of mobility.

“It sounded like a very intriguing concept and he also mentioned his goal of getting his therapeutic vibration device into nursing homes and senior independent living homes, like ours,” he said. “It hit home with me because we have 18-20 people at Landmark that use walkers. We had talked about doing a study with our residents, but it kind of went to the backburner when COVID hit last March. However, around the start of the year we got in contact again and it seemed to be a good time to get it going, so in February we launched the three-month study at Landmark Square.”

Other participants in the Landmark Square therapeutic vibration program echoed Holmes’ remarks, including 80-year-old Landmark Square resident Henry Lipman, who regularly uses a walker.

“I’ve lived at Landmark Square for five years now and I love it here,” Lipman said. “I work at Festival Foods as a bagger and they won’t let me sit down when I work.

“Before I started in this program, I couldn’t stand for more than one hour,” he said. “Since I’ve seen in the program, I can stand for my full two-and-half-hour shift. Outside of working at Festival Foods, I formed at bike club at Landmark Square and we ride tricycles around the parking lot here nearly every day. It has felt great to ride my tricycle after my treatments as part of the VibeTech program.”

Lipman says being part of the VibeTech program has helped to raise his spirits and activity level during the COVID-19 pandemic.

“Many of us have been locked up in our condos during COVID, which hasn’t been fun at all,” Lipman said. “A lot of people have been going crazy dealing with this pandemic.

“Doing extra activity as part of the program has helped me a great deal,” he said. “I would highly recommend it to others. Everyone I work with at Festival are teenagers. I am trying to keep up with them and I’m really happy to be able to stand for my entire two-and-half-hour shift. It has been awesome.”

Joyce Anderson, who is part of the program’s control group, has also enjoyed her involvement.

“I honestly was disappointed that I was in the control group and not picked to benefit from the treatment of the program,” Anderson said. “I know being in the control group, I can help in gathering meaningful information for the VibeTech study.”

“I understand that tracking the results of both the control and treatment groups will prove to benefit in developing VibeTech’s therapeutic vibration product in the future,” she said. “I use the VibeTech device once a week for 15 minutes. I sit on the machine and push with my legs. Then I do nothing for 10 minutes. My husband, Michael, is part of the treatment group and I have seen how it has helped him, which has been so great to experience. He has very bad knees and his muscles hurt often, which makes it difficult for him to walk. Since he started the program, he has been walking faster and leaving his walker behind, which he never used to do. His confidence has really been boasted.”

Michael Anderson admits to being hesitant about the program at first.

“I was curious about the program when I first hear about it, but I wasn’t sure what it would actually do for me,” Michael Anderson said. “Since I started the program, I noticed that I was very tired right after the treatment, but then I start feeling better two days after the treatment. I have been walking farther on my own and forgetting about the walker.

“We’ve actually been walking downtown and to the arts center, which is about four or five blocks,” he said. “My goal is to walk to the lake, which is a lot of up and downhill. I think I can do it though. I have a disease that makes me lose my balance often, and the program is helping me with my balance issue.”

According to Leismer, the positive impact the of being involved in the therapeutic vibration study has been significant.

“We just did our first monthly assessment based on the data that we've gathered from intake to the completion of the first month of the program and we've found that Michael has been doing incredibly well,” Leismer said. “In our assessment process, which measures walking speed, range of motion, ability to get up from a chair and overall balance, Michael has progressed from a rating of three out of 12 at the beginning to nine out of 12 at the most recent session. An improvement of one is considered clinically significant, so Michael is actually now at a level of improvement that is six times what is considered to be clinically significant. That is testimony to what therapeutic vibration can do to help people improve their mobility.”

Leismer is pleased to be able to offer quick feedback on the program, which can in turn help Landmark Square residents, as well as their family care provider and physician.

“It is nice to be able to see the progress in real time,” Leismer said. “It is helpful to track that kind of like looking at the stock market. As the numbers improve, we've seen that residents feel better and are able to do more.

“They are also able to share these results with four family care provider and their doctor, which is very helpful as well,” he said.

Leismer and VibeTech Clinical Liaison Deb Jacoby have been responsible for carrying out the one-on-one sessions with Landmark Square residents.

“Deb did the majority of treatments at Landmark Square for VibeTech and I have done some as well,” Leismer said. “We were at Landmark Square two days a week to cover all 36 folks involved. This is the first study that we've done at an independent living care setting. The statistical results that we gather will also help to give me ideas for future tech updates to our VibeTech therapeutic vibration devices.”

With phase 1 in the books, Leismer and Jacoby are currently moving into the next phase of the study.

"We are now embarking on phase 2 of the study with all participants from both the treatment and control group receiving treatments to see if we can positively change the trends on their strength and mobility from what we tracked the first 12 weeks of the study,” Leismer said. “We are seeing if adding a second session each week improves trends for the treatment group compared to what we saw during phase 1 of the study when only one 10-minute treatment was provided each week.”

According to Leismer, the study is aiding VibeTech’s progress in putting a new software program to use aimed at providing real-time feedback.

“Another benefit of this study is that it is helping us develop a new software tool to monitor progress of VibeTech care recipients to give the care recipient and those involved with their care real-time insights into their health trends,” Leismer said. “This type of data can help with managing care for the individual receiving treatments. It can also help in motivating them to continue to work hard to improve their quality of life by using a new, simple to perform therapeutic vibration treatment to improve their strength and mobility, while alleviating any aches and pains they have, which prevent them from participating in the physical activities they love to perform or that they need to stay fit or to restore their independence.”

McKnight's commends VibeTech for reaching crowdfunding goal

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Tue, 23 Feb 2021 01:28:07 GMT

VibeTech's WeFunder campaign to close April 11th

VibeTech's equity crowdfunding campaign through WeFunder is featured in the January-February 2021 edition of McKnight's Long-Term Care News.

McKnight's acknowledged VibeTech in the issue's technology section for having reached its target investment through its equity crowdfunding campaign on Wefunder. Although the target investment figure has been reached, interested investors still have until April 11, 2021 to make an investment in VibeTech's revolutionary therapeutic vibration technology.

McKnight's Long-Term Care News is the "most trusted media outlet in long-term care since 1980."

To view the VibeTech article in the January-February 2021 issue of McKinights Long-Term Care News, visit https://www.qgdigitalpublishing.com/publication/?m=63004&i=693025&p=12

To view the full January-February 2021 issue of McKnight's Long-Term Care News visit https://www.qgdigitalpublishing.com/publication/?i=693025

For more information about how to invest in VibeTech's equity crowdfunding campaign through WeFunder, visit www.wefunder.com/vibetech .

VibeTech's Jeff Leismer appears on Michigan Technology News TV

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Wed, 17 Feb 2021 02:39:08 GMT

VibeTech featured on MITech News TV podcast

VibeTech CEO and Founder Jeff Leismer was featured as a guest on the MITech News TV podcast, hosted by Mike Brennan and Matt Roush on Tuesday, Feb. 16, 2021.

The article and interview appears below as it was originally posted on MITechNews.com.

ANN ARBOR, MICH. (Feb. 16, 2021) – Jeff Leismer, the CEO of VibeTech, a Wisconsin-based vibration rehabilitation therapy, is now working with Metal Components of Grand Rapids, MI., to build a portable version of its therapeutic device that can help people with leg injuries regain bone and muscle mass.

VibeTech Enterprises LLC has cut a deal with Grand Rapids-based Metal Components to make a strength and mobility-improving medical device for seniors. VibeTech is a NASA spin off company that develops and commercializes state-of-the-art rehabilitation equipment incorporating therapeutic vibration.

As part of this arrangement, Metal Components will help VibeTech gain market traction for care for older adults experiencing reduced muscle strength, function, and pain, conditions which dramatically increase the risk of suffering a fall, the leading cause of injury and accidental death in seniors.

The agreement establishes the basis for a long-term collaboration between the two organizations that is expected to traverse multiple products across multiple markets.

Watch the full interview at VibeTech Vibration Therapeutic Products For Rehabilitation - YouTube

The Importance of Recreation Therapy During COVID-19

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Tue, 02 Feb 2021 04:04:35 GMT

By Deb Jacoby, CTRS, CPRP, APBC

VibeTech Director of Clinical Implementation and Training

Few of us imagined COVID-19 would extend throughout 2020 and into 2021. The effects of this pandemic have been staggering. As the weeks and months progress, the effects of social distancing, social isolation and changes in our everyday routine have taken a toll on all of humanity.

Working in a Skilled Nursing Facility as a Recreation Therapist over the past 35+ years, it is evident that this profession becomes more essential than ever. Immediate effects of social isolation related to the pandemic have already been observed, with surges in mental health concerns, substance abuse, and domestic violence. Early observation suggests problematic health behaviors, including substance abuse, poor sleep, and emotional behaviors, (ex. overeating), may increase. The COVID-19 pandemic has necessitated physical distancing protocols in senior care communities to help keep residents and staff safe. While implementing these procedures has helped slow and prevent the virus’ spread, it has also resulted in another threat to residents’ wellbeing and survival: social isolation and loneliness. https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/hblog20200609.53823#:~:text=Immediate%20effects%20of%20social%20isolation,emotional%20or%20overeating%2C%20may%20increase

Loneliness is often described as the state of being without any company; or, in isolation from the community or society. It is considered to be a dark and miserable feeling, a risk factor for many mental disorders like depression, anxiety, adjustment disorder, chronic stress, insomnia or even late-life dementia ( Wilson et al., 2007 ). Loneliness is common in the old-age group, leading to increased depression rates and suicide. It has been well-documented that long periods of isolation in custodial care or quarantine for illness has detrimental effects on mental well-being ( Stickley & Koyanagi, 2016 ). Loneliness is proposed to break this essential construct and disrupt social integration, leading to increase in isolation.

This is a vicious cycle which makes the lonely individual more segregated into his own ‘constricted’ space. Loneliness is also one of the prime indicators of social well-being ( Cacioppo & Patrick, 2008 ). Most people cringe at the idea of social isolation. They will do anything to keep themselves preoccupied or distracted, from acts of outrageous indulgences to preposterous shows of vanity and deprivation. In addition, loneliness has also shown to be an independent risk factor for sensory loss, connective tissue and auto-immune disorders, cardio-vascular disorders, and obesity. If this self-isolation and lockdown is prolonged, it is likely that chronic loneliness will decrease physical activity leading to increased risk of frailty and fractures. ( Mushtaq et al., 2014 ).

The statistics are sobering:

A 2015 study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science found that long-term social isolation and loneliness resulted in health effects comparable to smoking 15 cigarettes per day.
A 2016 study by Nicole Valtorta, PhD, an epidemiologist at Newcastle University, found that loneliness increased one’s risk of having a stroke or developing coronary heart disease by 30%.
A 2019 study by public health researcher Kassandra Alcaraz, PhD, MPH, found that social isolation increased study participants’ risk of early death, regardless of the participants’ race. In black participants, social isolation doubled the risk of premature death.

Senior living facilities traditionally provide a sense of community and a source of engagement and relationship-building opportunities. But implementing social distancing means that they need to find alternative ways to keep residents socially connected.

The Centers for Disease Control & Prevention reports that those aged 85 years and older with COVID-19 experience a 10 to 27% mortality rate in the United States. Conversely, a study published in Perspectives on Psychological Science found that social isolation could increase the chance of mortality by 32%. While social distancing is essential to preventing COVID-19 transmission within senior care communities, the loneliness that comes with this physical distancing is life-threatening, too. ( https://www.iadvanceseniorcare.com/how-virtual-reality-is-keeping-seniors-entertained-and-engaged-during-the-pandemic/ )

How Can Recreation Therapists Combat the Effects of COVID-19

1. Find New Technology to Enhance Your Program:

A recent article "Exercise Training Increases Size of Hippocampus and Improves Memory." See entire article: https://www.pnas.org/content/108/7/3017 . The study reported increases in the hippocampal volume of 2% leading to improvements in spatial memory. A new innovative device created by Dr. Jeff Leismer, founder and CEO of VibeTech Enterprises LLC, offers the VibeSit™Pro-a portable therapeutic vibration-based exercise device with patient specific Smart Dosing™ triggering leg muscles to automatically contract to deliver exercise to older adults as they relax in a chair/wheelchair or perform interactive leg presses. VibeTech's therapy has reported in literature to be safe & effective for older adults with limited mobility (Taani et al., 2019; J. Gerontol. Geriatr. Med.).

1. VibeTech’s customized treatments reduce fall risk by improving lower body muscle strength and flexibility, relieving pain in the lower body, which helps to restore balance and mobility . The VibeSit Pro’s technology measures and tracks improvements in strength to show the benefits of treatment, while providing social contact during the treatment. VibeTech’s #1 Priority is Reducing Falls in High-Risk Patients: those aged 65+ with physical and/or cognitive impairments. Social distancing can be maintained by bringing the device easily to the resident, rather than traveling throughout a facility to a therapy gym. More information about how you can make VibeTech a part of your program can be found at: www.vibetechglobal.com

2. Try Virtual Reality Devices

Now, VR headsets are showing up in senior living and memory care facilities in the United States and abroad, giving elderly people a chance to experience the sights and sounds of distant places, enjoy moments from their past, and explore experiences that for reasons of age or poor health are physically inaccessible in real life.

VibeTech is developing the use of VR devices that can be used while also having an exercise treatment on the VibeSit Pro device. Additional information on VibeTech’s VR developments will appear on our website: www.vibetechglobal.com. VR users can go fishing, travel through space, swim in the ocean, listen to music or interact with others. A recent pilot study involving a VR platform developed by a Dallas-based startup called MyndVR showed that seniors not only enjoyed using VR but also that some appeared calmer and more alert afterward, according to a spokesperson for Silverado, the Irvine, California-based company that operates the facilities where the study was carried out. ( https://www.nbcnews.com/mach/science/how-virtual-reality-helping-seniors-breathe-new-life-old-memories-ncna1069461 ).

3. Get a Music and Memory Program started. Visit: www.musicandmemory.com

If you have not already adapted a music and memory program, why wait? This program began in New York in 2012. After applying for and receiving a Well-Tuned music grant, we began this program at the facility I worked for, Rocky Knoll Health Care Facility. It was an instant success and was copied to all SNF’s and Assisted Living facilities in Wisconsin. https://musicandmemory.org/2015/03/04/1000-strong-counting-family-music-memory%E2%84%A0-certified-facilities-passes-milestone/

4. Take a page out of the books about “Candy Stripers”:

Reinvent an old program into something that works for you. Candy stripers first became a popular program back in the 1940’s. While the term candy stripers has since gone out of style, volunteerism has not. If anything, volunteerism has become more popular in recent years. “It’s more open and accessible,” says hospital volunteer manager Cynthia Turgeon. Although you may not be letting volunteers enter your facility, use the candy striper idea. Once facilities reopen, these programs can be volunteer run.

1. Create a traveling cart offering an afternoon bar/cocktail hour with snacks.

2. Implement a traveling store cart with cards, stationary, stamps, puzzle books, etc.

3. Develop a library cart with magazines for men and women, children’s books that people can read to their grandchildren over the internet, movies and more.

4. Offer an arts and crafts cart with adult coloring books, easy in room craft projects, or the ability to check out an i-pad or laptop if they do not have an accessible device.

5. Create and offer clientele a sensory activity.

5. 50 Activities For The Elderly In Lockdown And Isolation

https://www.goldencarers.com/50-activities-for-the-elderly-in-lockdown-and-isolation/6265/0

Staying healthy physically, mentally, and spiritually are crucial in our everyday lives. We all need to encourage the importance of routine, physical, mental, emotional, and spiritual activity while understanding the limits imposed by social distancing. Use new and old technology, familiar resources, be creative in your programming and ask for ideas from your clientele, family, friends, professionals. See “Supporting Older Adults During Covid-19” or more ideas. https://www.nrpa.org/blog/supporting-older-adults-during-covid-19/

References:

www.vibetechglobal.com

Taani et al., 2019; J. Gerontol. Geriatr. Med.

https://www.pnas.org/content/108/7/3017

https://www.nbcnews.com/mach/science/how-virtual-reality-helping-seniors-breathe-new-life-old-memories-ncna1069461

www.musicandmemory.com

https://musicandmemory.org/2015/03/04/1000-strong-counting-family-music-memory%E2%84%A0-certified-facilities-passes-milestone/

https://www.goldencarers.com/50-activities-for-the-elderly-in-lockdown-and-isolation/6265/0

https://www.nrpa.org/blog/supporting-older-adults-during-covid-19/

https://www.iadvanceseniorcare.com/how-virtual-reality-is-keeping-seniors-entertained-and-engaged-during-the-pandemic/

https://www.healthaffairs.org/do/10.1377/hblog20200609.53823#:~:text=Immediate%20effects%20of%20social%20isolation,emotional%20or%20overeating%2C%20may%20increase

VibeTech to present at virtual Rehab Tech Summit

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Thu, 28 Jan 2021 00:59:59 GMT

VibeTech to lead virtual session on smart-dosing therapeutic vibration rehabilitation technology

VibeTech will have a presence as a partner organization during the all-virtual 2021 Rehab Tech Summit Feb. 19-21.

VibeTech's presentation titled "Future Technologies for Health, Wellness and Rehabilitation" will feature a 15-minute product demo video with a live question-and-answer session and an additional 30-minute partner video slot.

VibeTech will provide an introduction to interactive robotic rehabilitation technology featuring smart-dosing therapeutic vibration. This session will also explore opportunities using telemedicine, group therapy and virtual reality integration. Participants will also learn how this technology will impact payment models throughout the continuum of care.

Rehab Tech Summit attendees will include rehab professionals looking for new technology to incorporate into their workplaces, rehab students learning about new technology and rehab professionals looking for opportunities to work with and for tech companies.

"VibeTech is excited to partner with the Rehab Tech Summit to bring our mission to restore and enhance quality of life by harnessing therapeutic vibration to rehabilitation professionals," VibeTech CEO and Founder Jeff Leismer said. "Join us!"

For more information about the 2021 Rehab Tech Summit visit https://rehabtechsummit.com .

VibeTech-Rocky Knoll partnership featured in McKnight's Long-Term Care News

Tue, 22 Dec 2020 04:02:52 GMT

VibeTech and Rocky Knoll recognized for winning 2020 McKnight's Gold Innovator of the Year Excellence in Technology Award

Through its highly successful partnership with Rocky Knoll Health Care Center in Plymouth, Wis., VibeTech is among the companies showcased in the December 2020 issue of McKnight's Long-Term Care News as the recipient of the 2020 McKnight's Gold Innovator of the Year Excellence in Technology Award.

The Sheboygan, Wis.-based therapeutic vibration technology company is featured in the 2020 McKnight's Excellence in Technology Awards article titled "From COVID-19 hardships come advances," which runs from page 14-17.

Check out the December 2020 McKnight's Long-Term Care News issue, including the feature on VibeTech's Gold Innovator of Year Excellence in Technology Award by clicking the following link - https://www.qgdigitalpublishing.com/publication/?i=687401&ver=html5

Rocky Knoll-VibeTech partnership nets McKnight’s Excellence in Technology Award

pedaldownpromotions@gmail.com (Jeff Pederson) — Fri, 23 Oct 2020 20:41:16 GMT

PLYMOUTH, WIS., October 23, 2020 - Rocky Knoll Health Care Center in Plymouth, Wis., in collaboration with Sheboygan, Wis.-based VibeTech, has been recognized by McKnight’s Long-Term Care News and McKnight’s Senior Living as a Gold winner in the 2020 McKnight's Excellence in Technology Awards in the Skilled Care Track’s Innovator of the Year category.

To view McKnight’s announcement of the award, click the following link https://www.mcknights.com/news/102898/

In 2016, Rocky Knoll Health Care Center entered into a partnership with VibeTech by investing in its device that uses vibration to reduce atrophy and pain in low-mobility patients receiving therapy. The Sheboygan County-owned skilled nursing facility now works with VibeTech to develop and measure the effectiveness of modified versions of the vibration device meant to increase the resident populations served.

In 2018, Rocky Knoll staff created a pilot to study how well memory care residents would tolerate the device, which imparts low-intensity vibrations tuned to contract muscles in the legs and low back to simulate standing and walking. The successful pilot study led to a Quality Assurance and Performance Improvement (QAPI) initiative aimed at reducing falls in this population that is twice as likely to fall as other residents and almost three times as likely to break a hip if they do fall. In 2019, data the group presented at the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine (ACRM) annual conference showed a 45-percent reduction in falls over a three-month treatment period versus the previous three months in the first six residents treated.

As a result of the tremendous success with these pilot studies, Rocky Knoll received a grant to develop VibeTech’s portable VibeSit™PRO, which uses the same technology without requiring residents to transfer from a wheelchair to get the benefits. Treatments can now be administered by all staff members as well as family members. Moreover, the portable design helps residents isolated by COVID-19 to receive treatments wherever it is most convenient (e.g., in their room, therapy department, exercise gym, etc.) while being disinfected between uses. A prototype is now being tested in conjunction with VibeTech.

In addition to Rocky Knoll’s and VibeTech’s participation, a community-based fall reduction program advisory group was formulated to provide feedback on the design and functionality of the portable device and the associated fall reduction program. The advisory group consists of local aging, dementia and Alzheimer’s organizations and organizations which cater to this population, which include:

· The Gathering Place http://memorymattersmost.com/

· Generations https://www.generationsic.org/

· Home Care Health Services http://www.homecarehealth.org/

· Sheboygan County Aging & Disabilities Resource Center (ADRC) https://www.sheboygancounty.com/departments/departments-f-q/health-and-human-services/aging-and-disability-resource-center

· Tender Hearts Senior Care www.tenderheartsseniorcare.net

“With the mission of ‘Innovation with Compassion,’ Rocky Knoll continues to partner with VibeTech in order to provide the Sheboygan County residents residing at Rocky Knoll with better quality of life and care using vibration technology,” Rocky Knoll Administrator Kayla Clinton said. "It's a tremendous honor to receive national recognition for our partnership with VibeTech to reduce atrophy and pain in our low-mobility residents. We are excited to see the vibration technology evolve and benefit individuals affected with dementia and Alzheimer's disease."

VibeTech CEO and Founder Dr. Jeff Leismer says the partnership with Rocky Knoll has helped to advance the impact of vibration technology to the next level.

“Creating technology that truly helps people is extremely rewarding, especially when seeing what the technology has done for Rocky Knoll’s memory care residents and other low mobility residents,” Leismer said. “We are proud of the new, portable therapeutic vibration technology and fall reduction program our community collaboration has produced, and we are excited to bring our solution to communities across the country to make the largest impact possible on quality of life and cost of care for one of the most difficulty-to-treat populations. That is why the McKnight’s Gold Award for Innovator of the Year is such a big deal. It helps us get the word out to the senior living industry that our team created a highly effective, novel solution to the large and growing problem of falls that so negatively affects the population the industry serves. The timing of the award is especially important, as it comes just as VibeTech launches an equity crowdfunding campaign to raise the capital needed to complete product development to bring this important solution to market.”

The 2020 McKnight’s Excellence in Technology Awards contest offered six categories for skilled care providers. Winning entries described the technology involved, how it was used and the benefits that resulted. An independent panel of experts selected Gold, Silver and Bronze winners for each category.

“We know technology makes a difference, but this year, more than ever, as a result of the pandemic, we have seen how it can lead to significant improvements in the lives of residents and staff,” said McKnight’s Editorial Director John O’Connor.

ABOUT ROCKY KNOLL HEALTH CARE CENTER

The Sheboygan County-owned Rocky Knoll Health Care Center is a licensed short-term rehabilitation and long-term care facility that serves up to 149 residents. For the past three years, Rocky Knoll achieved the highest possible overall rating of five stars from the Centers for Medicare and Medicaid Services (CMS). CMS developed this rating system to provide consumers with a standardized way to grade nursing facilities.

For more information on Rocky Knoll Health Care Center, visit https://myrockyknoll.com .

ABOUT VIBETECH

VibeTech is a NASA Spinoff medical device company located in Sheboygan, Wis. Its FDA-listed, patented therapeutic vibration technology is designed to treat patients with muscle weakness, impaired balance, reduced mobility and pain. It does this conveniently from the comfort of a chair or wheelchair, with or without the user putting forth effort. This solution maximizes efficiencies of care staff by engaging family members where possible to improve outcomes and provide a rewarding, interactive, engaging experience to all. The immediate and long-term benefits of treatment which have been observed and published are unprecedented in the senior living industry, because the age and frailty of VibeTech’s end users typically precludes the reversal of atrophy, decline and pain experienced even when receiving standard care. Over 20,000 Medicare and insurance reimbursed treatments have been provided safely to date, bolstering the company’s goal of establishing the new standard of care for older adults most at risk of falls and fall-related injuries.

For more information on VibeTech, visit www.vibetechglobal.com . To learn about participating in VibeTech’s equity crowdfunding round, visit www.wefunder.com/vibetech .

ABOUT McKNIGHT’S

McKnight’s is a media, branding and technology company with editorial offices in Northbrook, Ill. It is owned by Haymarket Media. McKnight’s Senior Living serves senior living professionals, and McKnight’s Long-Term Care News serves skilled care professionals, by providing the news, information, perspective and insight they need to succeed. The brands’ annual Excellence in Technology Awards competition recognizes operators that are harnessing technology to better serve their residents and business interests.

Additional information about McKnight’s can be found at https://www.mcknights.com/events/mcknights-technology-awards/ .

Reasons To Invest in VibeTech Enterprises

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 19:48:45 GMT

Watch full 2 minute video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZfBCTe6NZGk

CBS Sunday Morning

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 18:27:40 GMT

NASA-sponsored health technology lands in Sheboygan

VibeTech talks with CBS Sunday Morning about innovative therapeutic therapy technology .

View full video and article: https://www.cbs58.com/news/nasa-sponsored-health-technology-lands-in-sheboygan

PBS Milwaukee - Next Avenue Community Conversations

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 16:59:34 GMT

Next Avenue Community Conversations: Health Care at Home

Link: https://www.pbs.org/video/cutting-edge-technologies-role-in-home-based-health-care-mja45q/

Alzheimer's Speaks with Lori La Bey

Fri, 09 Oct 2020 16:56:58 GMT

Vibration Therapy - Changing Lives - Restoring Function & Reducing Pain

Watch CEO and Founder Jeff Leismer speak with Alzheimer's Speaks about VibeTech and The future of recovery.

Watch full 52 minute video: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=q3Xf6fRH2I8

VibeTech wins the 2017 Wisconsin Innovation Award for BioTech

Mon, 05 Oct 2020 18:18:53 GMT

Fourth Annual Event Celebrates the State’s Most Innovative Products and Services

MADISON, Wis. (October 5, 2017) – Last night, ten winners were honored from the thirty finalists and more than 230 nominees during the 2017 Wisconsin Innovation Awards at the Wisconsin Union Terrace. The ceremony, emceed by local entrepreneur and former UW Badgers Wide Receiver, Brandon Williams, recognized the state’s most innovative products and services from nine industry categories. The 2017 winners were selected from a panel of 23 experts from around Wisconsin, and span all business sectors – technology, food, healthcare, agriculture, nonprofits, education, government, and the like – throughout the state.

“The Wisconsin Innovation Awards seek to celebrate and inspire innovation, and highlight the creative spirit from the state’s leading public, private and nonprofit sectors,” said Matt Younkle, Co-Founder of the Wisconsin Innovation Awards and CEO of Cardigan, LLC. “We want to congratulate all finalists and winners from the 2017 Wisconsin Innovation Awards, and look forward to encouraging an even greater environment of innovation in the year to come.”

T he 2017 Wisconsin Innovation Awards Ceremony were presented by American Family Insurance and supported by Exact Sciences, First Business Bank, Green Clock Films, JP Cullen, Neider & Boucher, Props Unlimited, and the Wisconsin Economic Development Corporation, with support from the Irwin A. and Robert D. Goodman Foundation, HealthX Ventures, Teel Plastics, and WARF.

A Series of Good Vibrations – Episode 5: Biological Reasons for Falls

Fri, 10 Jul 2020 19:57:00 GMT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=75HHZIL5tFU

A Series of Good Vibrations Hosted by Jeff Leismer, PhD INTRODUCTION VibeTech is introducing a new video blog called, "A Series of Good Vibrations," which offers a collection of connected stories, testimonials and clinical results featuring concepts and innovations to enrich your life. EPISODES New episodes will appear every Friday on our YouTube.

A Series of Good Vibrations – Episode 4: The Prize-Reducing Falls in Alzheimer’s Residents Who are 2X More Likely to Fall

Fri, 05 Jun 2020 03:41:00 GMT

https://youtu.be/dFUjBjo6Kqk

A Series of Good Vibrations – Episode 3: Large Gains in Balance, Mobility & Physical Confidence Boost Mood and Break Down the Barriers to Physical Activity

Fri, 29 May 2020 02:49:00 GMT

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ARYFOuN20eY&t=2s

A Series of Good Vibrations – Episode 2: How Can That Be? 1/3rd More Flexibility and 2/3rds Less Pain in 10 Minutes

Fri, 22 May 2020 02:48:00 GMT

https://youtu.be/nuCcn965Wpg

A Series of Good Vibrations Introduction

Fri, 08 May 2020 11:00:00 GMT

https://www.youtube.com/playlist?list=PLHQZcMQHDF93quxiaF_Sp0yG5eYACpx4g

VibeTech suspends treatments, continues product development during COVID-19 pandemic

Fri, 27 Mar 2020 14:37:00 GMT

Impact of coronavirus (COVID-19) To mitigate the risk to our clients, friends, and employees, VibeTech has postponed treatments taking place in our research and demonstration facility and adopted a work-from-home policy. During this time, our efforts are focused on bringing a portable therapeutic vibration system to market that can provide critical neuromusculoskeletal stimulation/exercise to those [...]

VibeTech embraces Alzheimer’s advocacy role at State Capitol

Mon, 17 Feb 2020 17:41:00 GMT

State Rep. Terry Katsma (second right) met with a group of Sheboygan County advocates, including VibeTech Founder and CEO Dr. Jeff Leismer (far left), during the Alzheimer's Association Wisconsin Advocacy Day event at the Wisconsin State Capitol in Madison on Tuesday, Feb. 11. VibeTech Founder and CEO Dr. Jeff Leismer joined with group of [...]

VibeTech to assist Rocky Knoll Life Enrichment Program through Brotz Foundation grant

Fri, 20 Dec 2019 04:09:00 GMT

Celebrating a community partnership between Rocky Knoll, the Frank G. and Frieda K. Brotz Family Foundation and VibeTech are (from left) Charles Conrardy (President, Rocky Knoll Foundation), Jeff Leismer (founder and CEO, VibeTech), Jesse Brotz (director, Brotz Family Foundation), Adam Payne (administrator, Sheboygan County), Kayla Clinton (administrator, Rocky Knoll), John Brotz (vice president of [...]

Seated therapeutic vibration reduces pain by 66 percent

Fri, 15 Nov 2019 04:28:00 GMT

VibeTech therapeutic vibration reduces falls by 45% in memory care facility

Fri, 25 Oct 2019 15:52:00 GMT

Join us at the American Congress of Rehabilitation Conference (#ACRM2019) in Chicago Nov. 5-8. To learn more: https://acrm.org/meetings/2019-annual-conference

Good vibrations combat memory loss impact

Mon, 27 May 2019 23:50:00 GMT

Good vibrations combat memory loss impact VibeTech restructures to focus on innovation by Jeff Pederson Sheboygan Falls News Editor As it strives to make a wider impact in the healthcare field with its innovative therapeutic vibration science and technology VibeTech Enterprises LLC of Sheboygan has recently fine-tuned its approach and directed its efforts more intensively [...]

NASA-sponsored health technology lands in Sheboygan

Mon, 21 Jan 2019 01:28:00 GMT

CBS Sunday Morning's Michael Schlesinger visited Dr. Jeff Leismer in the VibeTech office for this special feature on the health care advancements being experienced through the use of the VibeTech machine. The delivery of vibration through the VibeTech machine has provided relief to those suffering from lower back pain, tendonitis, diabetic neuropathy, Parkinson's disease and [...]

VibeTech CEO & Founder Dr. Jeff Leismer on Lori La Bey’s Alzheimer’s Speaks Radio

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 13:58:00 GMT

Dr. Jeff Leismer is the guest of nationally renowned Alzheimer's advocate Lori La Bey on her Alzheimer's Speaks Radio program. The program entitled Changing Lives - Restoring Function and Reducing Pain features Leismer and collaborative partners Kayla Clinton and Deb Jacoby of Rocky Knoll Health Care Center in Plymouth, WI. Their discussion highlights the results [...]

Milwaukee PBS: Next Avenue Community Conversations: “Cutting-Edge Technologies and their Role in Home-Based Health Care”

Thu, 17 Jan 2019 13:26:00 GMT

Dr. Leismer joins Mark Siegrist host of Milwaukee PBS' Next Avenue Community Conversations. This panel discussion with Dr. Manish Acharya and Bryan Lewis , PhD focuses on technological advancements and providing more options for health care in the home from online doctor visits and monitoring to breakthrough medical equipment developed in Wisconsin to build muscle [...]

Listen to entrepreneur, Jeff Leismer, PhD tell his story on BizTalk with SCORE radio

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 13:41:00 GMT

This radio interview covers a broad range of topics ranging from introducing a new and innovative medical device, to working with a high-tech project, raising funds, and protecting intellectual property. The show first aired on March 3, 2018 and is available for listening at: https://biztalkwithscore.com/show-archives/vibe-tech-inc-jeff-leismer-phd/

Watch VibeTech CEO, Dr. Jeff Leismer, pitch to Milwaukee’s moguls on Project Pitch It

Mon, 15 Oct 2018 13:29:00 GMT

VibeTech was selected to present its business case to Milwaukee area moguls on Project Pitch It. The show can be thought of as Wisconsin’s version of Shark Tank, where entrepreneurs present their business to successful entrepreneurs who engage in discussions on how to best move the ideas forward. All entrepreneurs on the show receive an [...]

Dr. Leismer presents to entrepreneurs at 1 Million Cups in Appleton, Wisconsin

Sun, 14 Oct 2018 16:24:00 GMT

The Ewing Marion Kauffman Foundation developed 1 Million Cups to educate, engage and inspire entrepreneurs. Dr. Leismer was invited to present to other entrepreneurs and parties interested in hearing his entrepreneur’s story at the 1 Million Cups event in Appleton, Wisconsin on December 13, 2017. https://www.1millioncups.com/appleton/events/11326

Sheboygan business sends good vibrations for physical therapy – Sheboygan Falls News (December 1, 2017)

Mon, 04 Dec 2017 21:01:00 GMT

After making a breakthrough discovery as a biomedical engineering graduate student at Michigan Tech University nearly 17 years ago, Dr. Jeff Leismer of Sheboygan has traveled a long, intricate and potentially game-changing road in developing a revolutionary treatment for those suffering from mobility-limiting injuries and disabilities.

Through his Sheboygan-based VibeTech Inc. NASA spin-off business, Leismer is on the verge of unleashing his award-winning VibeTech semi-recumbent physical therapy system to the health care and rehabilitation field in force.

While studying how vibration-based systems could combat bone loss in astronauts during prolonged trips in space, the Detroit, Mich. native's original college research was based on the thought that using robotic vibrations could stimulate bone growth by essentially tricking bones into thinking they are being worked as they would be in normal physical activity.

“I began this process in 2001 when I started developing medical devices to overcome challenges faced by astronauts during long duration spaceflight while studying under the tutelage of a professor who studied NASA astronauts,” Leismer said. “We were attempting to see how we could use vibration technology to help astronauts who experience significant bone loss during long-duration space flights.

“I tested a high vibration machine on my legs for 10 minutes,” he said. When I tried to get back on my feet, I just about fell over. My legs were extremely fatigued. It was at that moment that I knew that this technology could benefit not just NASA astronauts with bone loss, but everyone on Earth who is dealing with a leg injury or mobility disability.”

Upon realizing that the vibration system could actually strengthen muscle for those with limited mobility, Leismer set out to test the technology through comprehensive research and development and clinical trials while gaining FDA approval and securing a number of patents.

After earning a doctorate from the University of Florida and relocating to Sheboygan in 2007 to work at Kohler Co., Leismer continued to lay the groundwork for his work with VibeTech.

Leismer's job at Kohler was eliminated during the recession, which led him to seek university teaching jobs.

In 2010, he got his big break when he received a $200,000 grant from the National Institutes of Health, which allowed him to pursue his VibeTech dreams on a full-time basis.

“I took great care to make sure this technology was safe,” Leismer said. “There was a great deal of rigor involved in the initial design. This involved significant research on bone fracture mechanics to make sure the equipment would help people without risk of hurting them.”

“When we got to the point where I thought we understood the science of it better than anyone else out there, I knew we were ready to put out a product and let people see what we had,” he said.

The result was the production of the VibeTech One robotic leg press machine, which was originally introduced in a very limited run of five machines in 2014.

One of the original series of machine was placed at Rocky Knoll Health Care Center in Plymouth, while another was installed at the Ovation Jewish Home in Milwaukee.

VibeTech’s technology incorporates the three active ingredients of physical activity - placing load, range of motion and therapeutic vibration on the legs to stimulate and strengthen leg muscles of patients recovering from injury and surgery, or experiencing weakness and frailty due to aging, lack of use or disability.

Leismer said the machine is completely accessible for patients of all stages of mobility, including those that are wheelchair bound.

“The device is aimed at people that are dealing with significant injuries, disabilities and chronic pain that has left them unable to perform weight-bearing exercises on their own that are usually required in order to build back bone mass and muscle strength,” Leismer said. “The amazing thing about it is that this works without any effort from the patient, although the user can take over for the machine when their health permits. The machine is able to do the work that is needed to aid in the patient's recovery”.

“It is really exciting because I am confident that this will be able to help millions of people that are struggling because they lack the mobility needed for their rehab,” he said. “There are just no other machines quite like this. VibeTech gives them hope.”

Leismer is currently poised to launch the second-generation VibeTech machine, which is being offered as part of a customer service package which is profitable for rehab centers from day one. This service includes innovative software applications and customer care features.

The second-generation VibeTech robotic leg press provides the added features of functional assessments, treatment planning and outcome evaluations based on patient-specific data with required documentation functions and patient interactive engagement.

According to Leismer, all data collected by the second-generation VibeTech machine will be formatted to be uploaded and compatible with leading healthcare management software systems making the system perfect for use at hospitals, skilled nursing facilities, physical therapy clinics, sports medicine facilities and other rehab centers.

“We have continued to do our research and the second-generation machine is even safer and more effective than our first model,” Leismer said.

“The system is completely fine tuned to be patient-specific by measuring strength and range of motion and dosing treatment based on the results,” he said. “This gives us the ability to better evaluate and measure outcomes and track how much improvement a patient has made during each one of their 10-minute sessions as well as over their course of treatment.”

The second-generation device also includes three rehab games to further engage patients, and many more games are to come. We are even working on the development of games for patients with specific conditions, such as dementia.

“We are currently working with a team of biomedical engineering students at UW-Madison to engage patients through interactive games, which grant rewards to patients. One idea considered was the use of virtual coins that patients can collect by attaining strength and coordination-related goals,” Leismer said. “We are working on a way to convert the virtual coins into real monetary rewards to be used at our customers’ gift shops, beauty salons and cafeterias.”

Over the past three years, the VibeTech semi-recumbent physical therapy system has created significant buzz in the field recently garnering an Innovation Award in the biotech category at the Wisconsin Innovation Awards in Madison.

Leismer and VibeTech CFO Ed Morgan have enlisted the support of four key consultants, an experienced board of directors, nationally and internationally recognized advisors, while aligning with Alaark Tooling and Automation of Sheboygan to manufacture VibeTech’s rehabilitation equipment.

According to Leismer, the next phase of the process is to secure additional capital to produce the machines for hospitals, nursing homes and rehab facilities throughout the country.

“We have everything we need to get the second-generation product out on the market, except the business development and sales side of it,” Leismer said. “We are seeking investors at all levels to help make this into a system that is readily available for all to use in the near future.

“We have an eye on expansion and our goal is to let everyone know the benefits and value of the VibeTech leg press machine,” he said. “We have generated a lot of interest in the health care field and there is a good buzz out there. We just need to secure the remaining investments necessary to push us over the top.”

The Sheboygan Senior Community is in line to be the first local demonstration point for the second-generation VibeTech machine and Leismer is looking at opening an office in Sheboygan before the end of the year to provide additional training opportunities on the VibeTech equipment.

“Our goal is to improve the quality of life for the patients that use the equipment,” Leismer said. “The response from the health care community has been great and I know there are a lot of clinic teams out there that are interested in the outcomes. In over 10,000 treatments thus far, there have been positive results for those using the equipment.

“The benefits for the worse-off patients who are too frail to use any other type of rehab equipment are incredible,” he said. “Our clinical studies have shown that the short-term gains are sustained and progressive in nature, leading to faster recovery with less pain.”

After 16 years of tireless work, Leismer is dedicated to see VibeTech through to widespread success.

“We are poised to ramp up production and get the second-generation VibeTech machine out into the field in large numbers to the general public,” Leismer said. “This has been a great illustration of how space is a great test bed for technology. I'm excited to see what this will do to help people and serve a greater good in the health care and rehab field.

“This technology may be just what the healthcare industry has been missing to solve the healthcare cost crisis through highly effective and efficient treatments that can benefit every patient admitted to therapy,” he said.

For more information on VibeTech Inc., visit www.vibetechglobal.com, email sales@vibetechglobal.com or call to speak to Dr. Jeff Leismer at 920-395-5339 .

Sheboygan entrepreneur shoots for the stars

Mon, 27 Nov 2017 03:31:00 GMT

Learn about the latest from VibeTech in the Sheboygan Press article by Phillip Bock on November 22, 2017.

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VibeTech wins the 2017 Wisconsin Innovation Award for BioTech

Tue, 24 Oct 2017 19:26:00 GMT

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http://vibetechenterp.wpengine.com/how-fox-valley-firms-raised-angel-venture-for-feb-9-tech-council-innov/

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NASA Spinoff: Space Grant Research Launches Rehabilitation Chair

Sat, 24 Jan 2015 15:52:00 GMT

NASA Technology A stay on the International Space Station is no vacation. During a visit to the orbiting National Laboratory, astronauts divide their time among a variety of tasks. For one, they look after a multitude of space-based science experiments. For another, they clean and check the station’s equipment—inside and out. They also spend a [...]

Advanced Physical Therapy at Jewish Home and Care Center

Fri, 18 Jul 2014 15:09:00 GMT

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VibeTech Physical Therapy showcased at BizStarts Grand Opening

Tue, 01 Apr 2014 15:18:00 GMT

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VibeTech Among Top 10 Louisville Innovation Summit Finalist

Mon, 25 Nov 2013 16:26:00 GMT

VibeTech selected to present to an audience of aging care providers and innovators at the inaugural Louisville Innovation Summit (Nov. 12-13-2013). The summit is committed to transforming thought of leadership in innovation for aging care of the future. VibeTech among top 10 Louisville Innovation Summit finalist. The VibeTech One, is the first and only semi recumbent [...]

VibeTech One, Now FDA Registered Lower Body Physical Therapy

Mon, 23 Sep 2013 15:34:00 GMT

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Treatment for Space Atrophy Finding Application on Earth

Sun, 01 Sep 2013 15:37:00 GMT

The lack of gravity in space reduces the mechanical loading seen by both the muscles and bones of the body, especially those related to standing and moving. The body adapts to reduced loading by losing bone mass and muscle mass. In long-duration space flights this leads to “disuse atrophy,” and an astronaut may lose up [...]