Akina secures CHF 150’000 to boost at-home physical therapy

Around 4 out of 5 patients requiring musculoskeletal care (MSK) fail during self-care at home due to a lack of clinical feedback and motivation. Yet, with an estimated additional cost of USD 7 billion per year, failing MSK patient self-care is a key cost driver in the Swiss healthcare system.

After several years of research in the areas of rehabilitation technology and robotics, PhD graduates Florian Haufe and Michele Xiloyannis founded Akina in 2021 to address this challenge. The digital health company is developing medical software to empower patients during independent physiotherapy at home. Powered by artificial intelligence, the motion analysis and exercise planning algorithms assure that movements are performed safely and effectively. Moreover, Akina connects therapeutic movements to the controls of popular cloud games and interactive cloud content to turn repetitive exercise into an immersive experience.

Behind Akina is a team of seven people who bring vast experience in movement science, AI, software development, and rehabilitation technology. The startup will use the Venture Kick cash prize to expand its team in the areas of business development, product management, and regulatory affairs for its product launch in 2023.

“Venture Kick offers two of the most essential resources that founders need at an early stage: venture financing and expert guidance on how to use it. For Akina, support from Venture Kick has been extremely valuable,” said Florian Haufe, Co-Founder and CEO of Akina.

Michele Xiloyannis, Co-Founder and CTO, added: “Venture Kick has been a stimulating experience for Akina’s founding team. Starting from our background in deep tech and science, we were increasingly challenged to adopt a product mindset and validate our business model with first customers.”

(Press release/RAN)