Abstract

This chapter presents the integration of functional electrical stimulation therapy and brain–computer interfaces to restore voluntary motor function after paralysis resulting from stroke and spinal cord injury. Functional electrical stimulation therapy is a short-term intervention in which patients attempt a series of functional tasks while a train of electrical pulses, triggered by a therapist, produces contractions of the muscles required to produce the intended movement. It is believed that the simultaneous presence of a motor command, produced by the attempted motion, and the corresponding sensory information, resulting from the artificially produced movement, promote changes in the nervous system that result in improved motor function after the therapy. Brain–computer interfacing technology offers a new opportunity to use indicators of the intention to move in the electroencephalographic activity to trigger the electrical stimulation. Early results suggest that this combination of technologies is effective for motor rehabilitation even in the most severe cases of paralysis.

Talk to us

Join us for a 30 min session where you can share your feedback and ask us any queries you have

Schedule a call

Disclaimer: All third-party content on this website/platform is and will remain the property of their respective owners and is provided on "as is" basis without any warranties, express or implied. Use of third-party content does not indicate any affiliation, sponsorship with or endorsement by them. Any references to third-party content is to identify the corresponding services and shall be considered fair use under The CopyrightLaw.