Paraplegia: Device helped patients regain control of arm and hand movements

In a groundbreaking advancement, a device hailed as ‘Life-Changing’ has helped more than 40 people with paraplegia regain control of their arm and hand movements, marking a significant milestone in medical technology.

This extensive research, revealed on Monday, shows that a user-friendly device has enabled over 40 patients, previously paralyzed from the neck down, to partially control their arms and hands again. The invention, developed by the Swiss medical technology company Onward, delivers impulses through electrodes placed on the skin near the area of spinal cord injury. After undergoing a two-month treatment plan, 43 out of 60 participants showed improvement, regaining strength and functionality in their upper limbs, as detailed in the journal Nature Medicine.

Principal investigator Chet Moritz, a neuroscientist, expressed hopefulness about the potential life-changing impact of the device for many patients with spinal cord injuries, causing paraplegia. Unlike treatments requiring invasive procedures near the spinal cord, this non-invasive solution shows promise in restoring essential hand movements.

While most attention is often on regaining mobility after cord injuries, trial participant Melanie Reid stressed how crucial hand function is for individuals with tetraplegia. Thrilled with her ability to grasp objects and use her phone effectively, Reid highlighted the importance of this device.Participant Sherown Campbell praised the device for improving his typing speed, cooking skills, and writing abilities, which ultimately enhanced his quality of life.

Reid compared training with the device to a workout session for the fingers akin to a “Pilates class.” Moritz delved into how the device functions by creating connections between the brain and impaired limbs, leading to long-lasting benefits even after discontinuing its use.

This study, notable for its participant pool, marks a significant milestone in spinal cord medicine history by demonstrating both safety and effectiveness in supporting tetraplegic recovery. French neuroscientist Gregoire Courtine, who oversees the study, affirmed these outcomes. Efforts are being made to obtain approval for the device in the U.S., with expectations of it hitting the market by year-end, followed by distribution in Europe. On a note, solutions enabling paralyzed individuals to regain mobility are still years away from widespread availability.

Although specific pricing information for the Onwards device has not been disclosed, Courtine has expressed intentions to make it affordable to ensure access to this groundbreaking innovation.