2023-05-29 19:16:54
The news that went around the world: Paralyzed man walks again thanks to experimental implant. This of course shocked the medical community and society in general, a second chance to live fully.
This is a 40-year-old Dutchman named Gert-Jan Oskam, who has been a quadriplegic since 2011 after a bicycle accident. His story was made public in the scientific journal Nature who collected and explained his case.
The accident caused a spinal cord injury that prevented him from moving freely, however, thanks to a new implant in his brain that “reads his thoughts” and electrically stimulates his spinal cord, the man has stated that he feels his movements more naturally and be able to walk long distances, even climb stairs using only crutches for support.
Photo: Instagram @elcomerciodigit
Oskam had tried other experimental treatments before, however she mentioned that this is the first time that she felt more in control of her body.
Experts mention that this step represents a future of hope for people who have lost control of their bodies due to conditions such as neurological diseases such as spinal cord injuries, strokes and Parkinson’s.
To make this technology a success, they used the implant that Oskam already had in his spinal cord to create a kind of digital bridge that stimulated the muscles he couldn’t move.
With the success of paralyzed man walked again thanks to experimental implantnew paths are opened to give people new opportunities regardless of diagnosis.
Photo: iStock
What is the spinal cord?
According to National Cancer Institute in the United Statesthe spinal cord is a column of tissue that extends from the base of the skull to the center of the back.
The spinal cord is covered in three thin layers of protective tissue called “membranes.” Both the medulla and the membranes are surrounded by the vertebrae of the spine.
Photo: iSto
What is the spinal cord used for?
The role of the spinal cord is fundamental for the functioning of the human body, since it is in charge of connecting the brain with the nerves of most of the body.
Therefore, when there is an injury in this area, the mobility of the body can be damaged or lost. And this had been an irreversible diagnosis until these new technologies of implants and digital bridges appeared like the one that has the Paralyzed man walks again thanks to experimental implant.
Photo: iStock
What happens if I have an inflamed spinal cord?
In accordance with Mayo ClinicWhen transverse myelitis or inflammation of the spinal cord occurs, different discomforts can occur.
Among the discomforts that there may be are pain, muscle weakness, paralysis, sensory problems, or bladder and bowel dysfunction.
As you can see, the proper functioning of the spinal cord is largely responsible for being able to move freely, so you must try to keep it in good condition and avoid accidents that compromise it.
Regarding brain health, we leave you a video that talks about brain hemorrhages.
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