Reversing Paralysis

A spinal implant capable of restoring movement to victims of paralysis has been tested on four wheelchair-bound men with remarkable results. The device consists of an array of 16 electrodes that are implanted in an area of the spinal cord which is still intact, as opposed to the injury site. The idea is to “awaken” those nerves that have lost function due to lack of use and restore the flow of information by stimulating nerves in the lumbosacral region – the neural “hub” which links the brain and the limbs.

Once the baseline electrical activity has been reestablished, complex algorithms are needed to translate the brain’s intended movements into actual movements. These algorithms must be optimized for each individual, for each task, and even for each side of the body. In addition, multiple algorithms must be designed to work simultaneously to coordinate an activity such as walking.

In spite of the challenges, all four subjects can now move their legs and toes, and all have recovered bladder, bowel and sexual function to varying degrees. The researchers are planning to expand their testing to include an additional eight patients, and are working on a second-generation device that will increase the number of electrodes to 27.