Smarter rehab

NR Times explores the latest developments in the field of neurotechnology - from the funding of precision neurotechnologies that aim to transform the treatment of epilepsy to using the brain to fly drones.  Nerve stimulation technology for chronic pain trial completed Peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS) for the treatment of chronic pain has completed a first-in-human [...]

An ultrasound technology that could stimulate the brain to improve mood and reduce depression is to be investigated in a new £6.5m NHS study. The Forest 1 device can interact with the whole brain with pinpoint accuracy unlike current technologies such as deep brain stimulation, which can only target a single area of the brain. [...]

A new, fine-tuned brain-computer interface lets prosthetic limb users feel the shape and movement of objects moving over the "skin" of a bionic hand. In two new papers, researchers have described major progress on a technology designed to direct carefully timed electrical stimulation of the brain in order to recreate tactile feedback to give nuanced [...]

According to a new study, the global rehabilitation robotics market is expected to grow from US$3bn in 2024 to US$8bn by 2032, with a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 12 per cent from 2024 to 2032. Rehabilitation robotics is the use of robotic devices and systems designed to assist in the physical rehabilitation of [...]

Researchers have developed the world’s first system that automatically recommends the optimal stroke rehabilitation programme. An increasing number of strokes and subsequent rehabilitation has highlighted the growing need for effective care strategies. Serious side effects, such as motor paralysis, can be challenging to treat, but the recent incorporation of robots into treatment has shown promise. [...]

The NHS is using AI to predict patients who are at risk of becoming frequent users of emergency services so staff can get them more appropriate care at an earlier stage. The intervention will aims to ensure that people get the support they need earlier, while also reducing demand on pressured A&Es. Over 360,000 patients [...]

Prominent neuro rehab technology innovator and UC Berkeley engineer Homayoon Kazerooni has been elected to the National Academy of Inventors. The National Academy of Inventors (NAI) has today the election of 170 inventors to its 2024 Class of Fellows, including inventor Homayoon Kazerooni. Kazerooni is a roboticist, mechanical engineering, professor of mechanical engineering, and founder [...]

Kessler Foundation research scientists have been recognised for their pioneering work in enhancing rehabilitation strategies for individuals with traumatic brain injury (TBI) with $3.4m in grant awards from the Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs (Department of Defense). The grants will support two groundbreaking studies aimed at improving gait, balance, and overall quality of life for [...]

Gait training aims to help people relearn or improve walking ability following a brain or spinal injury.  These injuries often disrupt the communication pathways between the brain, spinal cord and muscles, leading to difficulties in walking, balance and coordination. Gait training focuses on restoring these functions through targeted exercises, therapies and advanced technologies. The Hybrid [...]

Scientists led by Friedhelm Hummel at EPFL have identified an important factor affecting an individual’s responsiveness to anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (atDCS). atDCS uses a constant, low electrical current delivered via electrodes on the scalp to modulate neuronal activity. The team looked at how native learning abilities determine the effect of brain stimulation applied [...]