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The convergence of smart E-textiles, wearables and AI: revolutionizing sports performance, health and offering promise for PTSD


Journal of Textile Engineering & Fashion Technology
Moshe Lebowitz,1,2 Gavriel Halevi,2 George Lowell,2 Ziv Ritchie,2 Mathias E Later,2 Edmond Chalom,2 Eric M Schudy,2 Howard R Moskowitz3

Abstract

The integration of smart electronic textiles (e-textiles) with wearable technology and AI is transforming healthcare and sports performance by enabling seamless, real-time monitoring and therapeutic interventions. The case studies brought here are meant to serve as practical examples and beacons that guide us to understanding the expanding role smart textiles will contribute as this synergistic convergence begins to generate transformational value. Smart e-textiles, which embed sensors and conductive materials into fabrics, offer enhanced comfort and functionality compared to traditional wearables. This review explores their convergence, focusing on applications in health monitoring, rehabilitation, injury prevention, and performance optimization. Innovations such as Dexmat’s Galvorn conductive yarn and Healables’ ElectroGear, which delivers microcurrent electrotherapy, exemplify the potential of these technologies. We also discuss the role of electroceuticals in managing inflammation-related conditions, including diabetic neuropathy, long-COVID, and PTSD, supported by insights from Moshe Lebowitz’s Human Brain Expo talk. Health Secretary Robert F. Kennedy Jr.’s vision for universal wearable adoption within four years underscores their societal impact. However, challenges like data privacy, regulation, reimbursement and device durability remain. This article synthesizes current research and industry developments to highlight the transformative impact generated by the synergy of smart e-textiles, wearables and AI.

Keywords

smart e-textiles, wearables, AI, health monitoring, sports performance, rehabilitation, electroceuticals, conductive yarn, microcurrent, inflammation, PTSD, MSK

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