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News : New Device Could Help the Paralyzed Maintain Fitness
Ergoweb - Utah,USA, August 20 2005 --A new device that helps a paralyzed Briton to keep fit illustrates two phenomena – consumers who don’t give in to their disability, and the ergonomic credentials of a device that gives more self sufficiency to a severely handicapped individual.
As reported by the BBC in August, tetraplegic Sean Roake has increased his muscle strength and cardiopulmonary fitness using the device in three half-hour sessions a week. He reports that after just a few months he is able to manage wheelchair-to-car transfers more easily.
The device employs small electrodes placed on the skin to deliver pulses of electricity to the paralyzed muscles. The signals replace brain signals and harness nerve pathways. Adding to the ergonomic qualities of the device, the computer controls the strength of the signals to suit the individual and can also be adapted for several types of exercise. Placed on nerves serving the bicep and tricep muscles of the arm, for instance, the user can work an arm-exercise machine.
It can also be adapted for users with some function in their arms, helping them become strong enough to perform more day-to-day activities unaided.
Sean Roake told the BBC he feels "extremely positive" knowing he has taken responsibility for improving his health by exercising regularly with the system.
Engineers from Glasgow's University and Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit developed the device. The developers say it could be used by people paralyzed by a stroke or brain injury as well as those with spinal injuries. They hope a product based on their technology will soon be on the market.
Paul Smith, director of the Spinal Injuries Association, told the BBC the technique had enormous benefits as a way of dealing with associated problems like pressure sores because it builds up muscle bulk. "It's a means of being able to maintain not just physical health but body image."
Adding another point to its ergonomics credentials, the device allows a higher level or self-sufficiency for the user by enabling them to take charge of their own fitness. Without the device, responsibility for the user’s fitness is assigned to others, such as physiotherapists.
The Stroke Association estimates that about a third of stroke patients are likely to be left with disabilities and needing rehabilitation. According to an association spokesperson, functional electrical stimulation such as this could help. "It remains to be seen how much this technology can enhance the quality of life for stroke patients suffering paralysis ... the Stroke Association welcomes any new developments or technologies that have this potential."
(source : www.ergoweb.com)
