Hope for Spinal Cord Injuries
Help for those with spinal cord injuries may be on the horizon with a micro spinal implant currently in development at the University of Alberta, according to an article in Science Focus magazine. Shown effective in monkeys, the implant could be available to humans within a decade.
The implant works by sending electrical impulses directly into the spinal cord. Its impulses then trigger the complex chain of motor and sensory networks that link from the spinal cord to the hip, knees, ankles and toes.
Researchers say the implant may eliminate the need for physical therapy in patients with less severe spinal injuries. The first human trials will require patients to control movements physically. Eventually, researchers hope to connect the implant to the brain so that patients can simply think in order to walk.
If you or a loved one has suffered this kind of injury as the result of negligence on the part of another, it may help to speak with a Philadelphia attorney for spinal cord injuries. Please contact us at your convenience so we can set a convenient time to speak.