EPFL: Neuroprosthesis for Parkinson's Patients

2023: Product Announcement

On November 7, 2023, Swiss researchers from the Lausanne Federal Polytechnic School (EPFL) reported the development of a neuroprosthesis designed to correct walking disorders associated with Parkinson's disease. The technology opens up new possibilities for treating huge numbers of people around the world.

Parkinson's disease is a progressive neurodegenerative disease characteristic of those in the older age group. It is caused by the destruction and death of neurons that produce the neurotransmitter dopamine. Scientists note that disabling walking disorders occur in about 90% of people with advanced Parkinson's disease. Drugs that make up for dopamine deficiency are used to treat such conditions. In addition, deep brain stimulation is used. However, such methods are not always quite effective, and sometimes they are completely useless.

Scientists develop neuroprosthesis to correct walking disorders in Parkinson's

The method proposed by Swiss researchers is based on electrical stimulation of the spinal cord. The idea is to ensure that the department that is responsible for activating the leg muscles while walking is affected. Specialists implanted a neuroprothesis in a patient over the lumbosacral region of the spinal cord. Stimulation activates a network of neurons connecting the spinal cord and leg muscles.

It is noted that the participant in the experiment, 62-year-old Mark, has been living with Parkinson's disease for almost three decades. He developed serious walking disorders, which he could not cope with with traditional methods. The man often fell, stomped on the spot and could not turn. After implanting a neuroprosthesis and several weeks of rehabilitation, Mark was able to walk almost like ordinary people and even overcome flights of stairs.

Now I'm not even afraid of stairs anymore. Every Sunday I go to the lake and walk about 6 kilometers. It's incredible, "the patient says.[1]

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