Max Robotics — Global Service Robot Directory + US Certification

About

Dr. Annette Correia is a pioneering researcher in pediatric rehabilitation robotics, focusing on restoring hand function in children with neurological disorders such as cerebral palsy and stroke. Her major contributions center on the development of the Isolated Orthosis for Thumb Actuation (IOTA), a robotic thumb exoskeleton designed specifically for at-home pediatric therapy. This device addresses the debilitating thumb-in-palm deformity that severely limits motor skill development and activities of daily living. Her most cited work, the 2013 paper introducing IOTA, has garnered 79 citations, demonstrating its significant impact on the field. Dr. Correia’s research uniquely combines mechanical design with clinical application, as evidenced by her 2015 study examining the biomechanical properties of the thumb’s carpometacarpal joint in pediatric patients. By creating accessible, child-friendly robotic solutions for home-based rehabilitation, she has opened new pathways for early intervention and continuous therapy, directly improving quality of life for young patients. Her work stands at the intersection of engineering innovation and compassionate pediatric care.