Innovative Approach: New Mobility Devices Focus on the Brain Instead of Limbs

Researchers are increasingly turning to cognitive science to revolutionize the field of prosthetics and therapeutic tools. This shift in focus aims to enhance the mobility and functionality of individuals affected by strokes and other neurological injuries. The story of David Leblanc, a retired sales associate, illustrates the life-changing potential of these innovations. After a stroke left him without finger mobility for over a decade, he encountered a promising solution during a 2019 community event: a device called MyHand, developed by med-tech startup IRegained, which helps stroke and spinal-cord injury survivors regain finger dexterity through interactive gaming.

MyHand employs a unique setup where users insert their fingers into thimble-like cups on a device resembling coin-operated binoculars. These cups act as controllers, measuring finger movements and providing resistance as users progress through various games designed to enhance motor skills. Leblanc experienced early challenges, but soon noticed subtle improvements—a testament to the device's innovative approach that directly engages cognitive functions essential for movement.

The underlying premise of this technology is that movement primarily operates in the brain, not just in the limbs. Historical prosthetics have mainly been passive replicas, failing to connect the physical movements with cognitive processes. Today's advancements, however, indicate a merging of cognitive science with mobility tools, with scientists like Brokoslaw Laschowski from the Neural Robotics Lab emphasizing the importance of enabling prosthetics to “think” in ways similar to humans. This involves developing algorithms that allow implanted devices to interpret and respond to the user's intentions, utilizing methods like EEG caps or myo-electrical sensors to decode brain activity.

The future may feature fully autonomous prosthetic devices akin to self-driving cars, revolutionizing mobility for individuals who have lost their ability to walk. Companies like smartARM, founded by Hamayal Choudhry, are already creating smart prosthetics equipped with sensors and cameras that can learn from the user’s actions and adapt to their needs. This adaptive technology aims to improve the user experience, allowing devices to conform to individual users rather than vice versa.

Unlike traditional motor injuries, neurological conditions retain the physical integrity of limbs but hinder their functionality. By training devices to mimic human cognitive function and buttons, researchers believe it’s possible to retrain the human brain to regain lost abilities. Johnson's MyHand device exemplifies this ideology, providing workouts that involve a range of movements necessary for everyday tasks.

After months of using the MyHand device, Leblanc began to experience significant improvements in his dexterity. He could perform tasks like retrieving utensils and eventually even tied fishing knots, activities he thought he lost forever. This underscores the profound impact cognitive-based rehabilitation devices can have on restoring mobility.

In conclusion, the integration of cognitive science in developing next-generation prosthetics and therapeutic tools heralds a new era of rehabilitation that promises to enhance the independence and quality of life for those affected by neurological conditions. As researchers continue to innovate, the potential for these technologies to improve mobility and restore lost capabilities becomes increasingly promising, as exemplified by the transformative journey of individuals like David Leblanc.