Breakthrough Electrical Stimulation Device Offers New Hope for Spinal Cord Injury Recovery

May 21, 2024
Breakthrough Electrical Stimulation Device Offers New Hope for Spinal Cord Injury Recovery
  • A recent study highlights the benefits of electrical stimulation exercises for individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCIs).

  • Focus areas include neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) resistance training and functional electrical stimulation (FES) cycling.

  • Combining FES leg cycling with voluntary arm crank exercise (ACE) or resistance training significantly improves cardiovascular health, muscle mass, and strength.

  • Onward Medical's new noninvasive ARCex device shows promise in helping individuals with SCIs regain hand and arm function.

  • Reid regained control of her left hand using the ARCex device.

  • ARC Therapy, developed by Grégoire Courtine and his team, uses electrical stimulation via electrode pads on the skin.

  • Over two-thirds of participants in ARC Therapy showed improved hand and arm function.

  • The therapy boosts nerve excitability and encourages nerve regrowth and new connections in the spinal cord.

  • Sherown Campbell, tetraplegic since 2014, saw significant improvements in movement, strength, and sensation in his hands and arms using electrical stimulation with rehabilitation.

  • Most patients experience similar positive results within two months.

  • The Up-Lift trial with 65 tetraplegic patients in 14 countries demonstrated significant improvements in strength, function, and quality of life.

  • Patients like Campbell experienced life-changing gains in hand function and daily activities through the treatment.

  • The ARCex stimulator enhances strength and mobility in people with paraplegia when used on the neck area.

  • Researchers believe non-invasive spinal cord stimulation, such as ARCex and ARC Therapy, offers hope for recovery and potential improvements in functions like walking for individuals with SCIs.

Summary based on 7 sources


Get a daily email with more Tech stories

More Stories