Amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), which is also known as Lou Gehrig’s disease, is a progressive neurodegenerative disease that affects nerve cells in the brain and spinal cord. ALS causes these cells to deteriorate and die, which leads to a loss of muscle control and movement.
Symptoms of ALS typically start with weakness in one limb or a slurred speech, and then progress to the point where the person is unable to move, speak, swallow, or breathe without assistance. ALS is a rapidly progressive disease, and most people with ALS die from respiratory failure within two to five years of being diagnosed.
Soft robotic wearable improves mobility for those suffering from ALS
A collaboration between researchers at the Harvard John A. Paulson School of Engineering and Applied Sciences and Massachusetts General Hospital has given birth to a revolutionary wearable device aimed at aiding those suffering from ALS (Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis), and NeusoscienceNews.com tells us more.
This soft, fabric-based wearable operates cordlessly and utilizes a sophisticated sensor system to detect the smallest movements of the arm, thereby allowing the device to smoothly and naturally assist in arm and shoulder movements. The device was tested on 10 ALS patients and was found to bring about an increased range of motion, reduced muscle fatigue, and improved performance of daily tasks.
Conor Walsh, the senior author of the study paper, stated as NeuroscienceNews.com quotes:
This study gives us hope that soft robotic wearable technology might help us develop new devices capable of restoring functional limb abilities in people with ALS and other diseases that rob patients of their mobility.
The team is also exploring the possibility of wider applications for individuals with spinal cord injuries or muscular dystrophy, as well as potential brain-controlled versions for patients with little to no residual muscle activity. The ultimate goal is to create a wearable that functions as effortlessly as clothing, to provide much-needed comfort and support for those affected by ALS.
ALS is a devastating disease, and research into its causes, progression, and potential treatments continue to be an area of active investigation. Efforts to increase public awareness and funding for ALS research are underway, with the hope of finding new treatments and, eventually a cure for this devastating condition.
