A preliminary comparison of myoelectric and cyclic control of an implanted neuroprosthesis to modulate gait speed in incomplete SCI

The Journal of Spinal Cord Medicine, 2015 · DOI: 10.1179/2045772314Y.0000000262 · Published: January 1, 2015

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores the use of electromyography (EMG) to control electrical stimulation for walking in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI). The goal was to determine if this EMG control could improve the ability to change walking speed and alter gait patterns compared to using pre-programmed stimulation. The research involved a single participant who used an implanted neuroprosthesis to walk. Two control methods were compared: a pre-programmed stimulation pattern and EMG-controlled stimulation based on signals from leg muscles. The study found that EMG control led to significant improvements in walking speed and distance compared to the pre-programmed stimulation. This suggests that EMG control can enhance the ability to adjust walking speed in individuals with incomplete SCI.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

Single subject with C6 AIS D SCI

Evidence Level

Level 4; Single case study

Key Findings

1
EMG control significantly increased walking speed and distance compared to cyclic stimulation during 2-minute walks.
2
Maximum walking speed with EMG control was significantly faster than the fastest automatic pattern.
3
EMG control expanded the range of available walking speeds compared to cyclic stimulation.

Research Summary

This case study compared EMG-controlled stimulation to pre-programmed cyclic stimulation for walking in a subject with incomplete SCI. Results showed that EMG control led to statistically significant increases in walking speed and distance, and a greater range of walking speeds compared to cyclic stimulation. The findings suggest that EMG control can improve the ability to modulate walking speed and adapt to different environments for individuals with incomplete SCI.

Practical Implications

Enhanced Gait Modulation

EMG control allows for a greater range of walking speeds, enabling users to adapt more effectively to various environments and obstacles.

Improved Functional Ambulation

The ability to modulate walking speed can improve independence in activities of daily living.

Potential for Personalized Rehabilitation

EMG-triggered stimulation can be integrated with voluntary function, potentially leading to more coordinated and dynamic gait patterns.

Study Limitations

1
Single-subject case study limits generalizability.
2
EMG control for the left step relied on the right leg, which may not be optimal.
3
Limited number of trials.

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