For a great number of people with paralyzed limbs, the reason that they can’t move the arm or leg in question is because the “move” command isn’t able to reach from their brain to the limb.
This is often due to damage to the nervous system, or to the brain, although the limb itself is still perfectly functional … so it could still move, if only there was a way of getting the signal to it. Well, one might be on its way. Scientists at the University of Michigan have developed an implant known as the BioBolt, that wirelessly transmits neural signals from the brain to a computer. In the future, that computer could hopefully then relay them onto a formerly-paralyzed limb.
Neural implants do already exist, although previous attempts have required an access hole in the patient’s skull to remain open while the device is in use – not all that practical for everyday use. The BioBolt, by contrast, would sit underneath the skin and within a hole in the skull, effectively sealing it.
Related articles
- Electrostimulation helps paralyzed man stand up (ctv.ca)
- Brain Implant Uses The Body’s Skin Like A Conductor To Wirelessly Transmit The Brain’s Neural Signals To Control A Computer (medicalnewstoday.com)
