The development of assistive technologies for brain injury sufferers has improved dramatically in recent years. As one of the major causes of disability among children and young adults, traumatic brain injury (TBI) presents unique challenges for diagnosis, treatment and coping with long-term effects.
The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reports that approximately 1.7 million Americans sustain a TBI each year. In many cases, these injuries cause long lasting and severe disabilities including memory loss, difficulty understanding information, organizational challenges and trouble communicating. Sometimes these impairments prevent individuals from resuming an independent lifestyle.
A new technology gives hope to patients who have suffered brain injuries. For patients that have lost the abilities to speak or walk, a wearable technology called NeuroNode may render some form of communication possible in the future. NeuroNode was initially developed for people with ALS, spinal cord injuries, and those who experienced war injuries. But this could be a breakthrough for a range of individuals with limited to no communication such as children with cerebral palsy, those recovering from a coma, or people with mobility issues.
NeuroNode, developed by Control Bionics, is affixed to a patient’s skin and records electrical impulses when the wearer tries to move a muscle. This impulse is then transmitted to an internet-connected device via electromyography (EMG) technology. EMG, or electromyography, is a measurement of electrical activity that is produced when a particular group of muscles is stimulated by electrodes placed on the skin. The EMG technology can direct a computer to produce speech, browse the internet, and listen to music. The device is small, handheld, and wireless. It can be used along with scanning software produced by Apple, Google, and Android.
EMG technology is considered the future of assistive technology for those with severe brain injuries or paralysis. This is because EMG technology relies on the existing signals that are transmitted from the brain to the muscles in the brain injury patient.
Rehabilitation experts are hopeful that NeuroNode can make a significant difference in the lives of both wearers of the technology and their caretakers. The electrical impulses allow others to decipher the needs of the wearer, which was virtually impossible before.
If you or a member of your family was injured and suffered a traumatic brain injury, contact Alexander Law Group, LLC. Our exceptional personal injury lawyers will be sure you get the maximum compensation possible. Call 888.777.1776, or contact us online.
