Innovative Prosthetic by MIT Enhances Walking Experience for Amputees
MIT Researchers Unveil Cutting-Edge Neuroprosthetic A team of researchers at MIT has developed a groundbreaking prosthetic leg controlled by brain signals, offering a transformative experience for amputees. This advanced bionic limb enables users to hike, dance, and navigate varied terrains with full control over their movements.
Significant Improvement in Walking Speed and Mobility In a study published in Nature Medicine, the neuroprosthetic increased walking speed by 41% compared to traditional prosthetics. This innovation allows amputees to reach walking speeds comparable to those without amputations and adapt to diverse environments like slopes, stairs, and obstructed pathways seamlessly.
A Leap Towards Natural Movement "This is the first prosthetic study in history showing a leg prosthesis under full neural modulation, where a biomimetic gait emerges," said Hugh Herr, co-director of the MIT Center for Bionics and a double amputee. The prosthetic translates brain signals directly into movement, creating a natural gait controlled by the user's nervous system rather than a robotic algorithm.
Enhanced Sensory Feedback Through AMI Surgery Seven patients who participated in the study underwent "agonist antagonist myoneural interface" (AMI) surgery. This procedure allows for accurate sensing of limb position, speed, and torque, enhancing the user's ability to control the prosthetic naturally.
Real-World Applications and Future Prospects The new prosthetic's ability to detect and translate brain signals into movement significantly improves the wearer's mobility. "Because of the AMI neuroprosthetic interface, we were able to boost neural signaling, restoring continuous and direct control over the gait," explained lead author Hyungeun Song from the MIT Media Lab.
Hugh Herr, who lost his legs in a blizzard in 1982, is considering trying the surgery and prosthetic himself. He believes this advancement marks a crucial step towards restoring full functionality to those with severe limb injuries.
Looking Forward "This work demonstrates what is possible in restoring function in patients with severe limb injuries," added coauthor Matthew Carty from Harvard Medical School. The MIT team's innovation represents a significant leap in prosthetic technology, offering new hope and enhanced quality of life for amputees worldwide.
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