Researchers from Hong Kong and mainland China have created a lightweight, battery-free neural prosthesis designed to enhance the mobility of individuals with walking difficulties, such as stroke survivors. This innovative device harnesses energy generated by the wearer’s movements to stimulate their muscles electrically, aiding in ankle flexion and restoring a natural walking pattern.
The benefits of this device extend to preventing falls for elderly individuals and other people with mobility impairments. It may even have applications for athletes in training. According to a paper published in Nature Communications, the device operates automatically without needing external sensors or batteries by utilizing energy harvesting through the user’s natural movement.
In trials conducted on both treadmills and outdoor settings, the prosthesis demonstrated an ability to increase stride length and walking speed in stroke survivors after just a few steps to power up.
