Researchers from the Universities of Pittsburgh and Carnegie Mellon have successfully tested neurotechnology for...
Previously, spinal cord stimulation was used topain treatment. The authors of a new study tried a method for treating the consequences of a stroke. They used computer simulations and conducted preclinical testing in macaques. Then they received permission to optimize therapy for the treatment of people.
In a series of adapted tests, stimulation helpedpatients to perform tasks of varying complexity: move objects, open locks or canned food, clench and clench fists, raise arms above their heads, and even use a fork and knife to eat.
“By stimulating certain sensory nerves in the hands, wewe increase the activity of muscles that are weakened by a stroke, explains Douglas Weber, professor of mechanical engineering at the Institute of Neurology at Carnegie Mellon University. “It is important that the patient retains full control of movement: assisted stimulation reinforces muscle activation only when patients attempt to move.”
Worldwide, one in four people over the age of 25years may experience a stroke during their lifetime. 75% of them have problems with the functioning of the hands, which limits the physical autonomy of patients. There is currently no effective treatment for stroke-induced paralysis.
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