There are now 4 young men paralyzed from the chest down, who have regained some control of their lower limbs, thanks to an implanted electrode array. The device is inserted into the spinal cord. According to the National Institutes of Health, the implant “…emits a pattern of electrical signals that can evoke muscle activity in response to sensory input or other signals.”

Intensive physical therapy and experimental drugs were also provided as part of the treatment.

In the most recent research study, which was led by Dr. Claudia Angeli at the University of Louisville, 3 males participated who had been paralyzed for at least two years. One of the patients had feeling in his legs but no movement; the other two research subjects had neither sensation nor movement.

Several days after receiving the implant, before physical therapy had begun to train the men on how the implant worked, all three spontaneously developed some movement in their lower extremities. Once intensive therapy began all of the participants gained much greater control over muscle movements in their legs.

Many new studies are being designed with the early success of this treatment. Refinements to the implanted stimulator are also being made. This breakthrough provides hope for thousands who are paralyzed, and have been paralyzed for more than a couple of years. As the research continues and new implants, medications and therapies are developed, there may be opportunities for individuals suffering from paralysis to regain movement.

As your advocate, Dr. Greg Vigna considers leading edge treatments when arguing for the best long term care possible in your legal case.

Reference

National Institutes of Health (2014); Paralyzed Men Regain Movement With Spinal Stimulation; Site: http://www .nih. gov/researchmatters/april2014/04142014spinal. htm