British researchers have created a device the size of a child's fingernail that could make a big difference for paraplegics. The device, developed by researchers with the U.K. Engineering and Physical Sciences Research Council, allows paraplegics to exercise their leg muscles. It's a first device of its kind small enough to be implanted directly into the spinal canal and incorporates the electrodes and muscle stimulator in a single unit, according to ScienceDaily.
"The work has the potential to stimulate more muscle groups than is currently possible with existing technology because a number of these devices can be implanted into the spinal canal," Andreas Demosthenous of University College London is quoted as saying. "Stimulation of more muscle groups means users can perform enough movement to carry out controlled exercise such as cycling or rowing."
According to ScienceDaily, the researchers have overcome previous limitations by micro-packaging everything into one tiny unit. Tiny electrodes were cut from from platinum foil, which are then folded into a 3D shape that resembles the pages of a book--which is why the device is named Active Book. The pages close in around the nerve roots, then are micro-welded to a silicon chip.
The research caught the attention of David Willetts, the UK's Universities and Science Minister. "The Active Book is a good example of how UK scientists and engineers are translating research into innovations that deliver real benefits for society," Willetts is quoted as saying. "This tiny implant has the potential to make a real difference to the lives and long-term health of people with paraplegia in the UK and around the world."
The Active Book will be made available for pilot studies sometime next year.
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