Approximately 87% of all strokes involve a blockage of blood flow to the brain, which can result in long-term disability. Strokes result in reduced mobility in the majority of stroke survivors age 65 and older in the U.S., according to the CDC. We have written many times about neurostimulation treatments for chronic pain, but new research extends the potential applications for neurostim. We recently covered a report on research focused on brain stimulation to improve memory. Other studies report on the use of neurostim in stroke rehab.
Zynex NeuroDiagnostics‘ NeuroMove technology has been cleared by the FDA to treat stroke rehab patients. NeuroMove works by sensing minute attempts to move muscles in response to weak signals from the brain. The device represents the activity by displaying significant increases above normal activity, basically a signal-to-noise differentiation. When the NeuroMove microprocessor detects such activity, it stimulates the target muscle group to contract. According to Zynex, the muscle movement observed by the patient contributes to the learning and retraining process. Studies cited by Zynex substantiate the technique employed by NeuroMove technology, including research by researchers from the University of Minnesota published in Experimental Brain Research.
The promise of NeuroMove to improve mobility for stroke patients has significant potential to improve quality of life for stroke survivors. Early treatment after a stroke followed by neurostimulation may be able to significantly extend patient independence and sense of freedom.
