Bluetooth Device Helps a Paralyzed Man Walk Again With Just His Thoughts

Bluetooth devices are always there to rescue us but can it help a paralyzed man walk again? In a recent study, a groundbreaking device that connects the brain and spinal cord using Bluetooth technology was developed, enabling a paralyzed man to walk again (1^✔ ✔Trusted Source
Walking naturally after spinal cord injury using a brain–spine interface

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A man in the Netherlands, Gert-Jan Oskam, a 40-year-old who suffered severe injuries resulting in a broken neck in a 2011 cycling accident in China, was initially told he would never regain the ability to walk. However, with the help of an implant known as a 'digital bridge,' that reads brain waves and wirelessly sends instructions to his spine, Oskam can now utilize the necessary muscles to stand and walk.

However, with the help of an implant known as a "digital bridge," which reads brain waves and wirelessly sends instructions to his spine, Oskam can now utilize the necessary muscles to stand and walk.

Digital Bridge Implant to the Rescue

The "digital bridge" implant was developed by a team of neuroscientists based in Switzerland working on a program focused on assisting paralyzed individuals in overcoming their limitations through wireless brain-machine interfaces.

Since the surgical implantation of the device, Oskam has achieved significant milestones, including climbing stairs and walking up to 100 meters at a time. He expressed joy at standing up and socializing with friends after 10 years and is looking forward to integrating the device into his daily life.

Previous tests involved a different interface, where Oskam was able to walk by receiving computer-generated signals intermittently through button presses. Although he could take multiple steps simultaneously, the movements appeared robotic.

The latest version of the device, however, includes brain electrodes that identify neural activity whenever Oskam intends to use his legs. This neural activity is then converted into impulses and sent to spinal electrodes, generating desired leg movements.

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While the device does not yet produce completely smooth and natural movements like those of fully-abled individuals, Oskam acknowledged that this updated version allows for more natural movements compared to previous iterations. The new version enables activities such as standing and walking by translating thoughts into signals that flex the hips, knees, and ankles, mimicking natural movements as closely as possible.

Reinstating the Communication Between Brain and Spine

Grégoire Courtine from the Swiss Federal Institute of Technology in Lausanne explained that the "digital bridge" re-establishes communication between the brain and the specific region of the spinal cord responsible for controlling leg movement.

Impressively, the device has also enabled Oskam to regain some control over his legs, even when the device is turned off. This is possible because not all the nerves in his spine were completely severed.

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The "digital bridge" development holds great promise for paralysis therapy. The research team believes that future iterations of the device could assist patients in recovering other functionalities, such as arms control or bladder function.

Oskam's positive response to the device, even a decade after his life-altering accident, instills confidence in the potential success of such technology, especially for patients who have recently experienced similar injuries.

Reference:

1. Walking naturally after spinal cord injury using a brain–spine interface - (https://www.nature.com/articles/s41586-023-06094-5)

Source-Medindia