Epidural stimulation helps paralysed patient stand again
Friday 20th May 2011
A pioneering treatment in epidural stimulation has shown success in one patient, bringing hope to many worldwide.
Sixteen electrodes were implanted on specific points on the patient's spinal cord, according to the study published in the Lancet.
He then practised attempting to stand, move his legs and walk while accompanying electrical pulses were sent down his spine.
The patient, who had been paralysed after a hit and run accident, was then able to stand independently and take a few steps with assistance.
He also regained blood pressure, bowel and bladder control.
Rob Summers, the patient in question, said: "To be able to pick up my foot and step down again was unbelievable, but beyond all of that, my sense of well-being has changed."
This news comes after a second patients was enrolled in the first US clinical research trial of human embryonic stem cells, which is sponsored by Geron Corp.
Written by Martin Lambert
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