Of course, we can apply the stimuli given to spinal cord paralyzed patients not only through the spinal cord but also through the brain. This year, the group at Lausanne University in Switzerland implanted a stimulator in the brains of patients who could barely walk, enabling them to walk more easily. Since this is a method we have been practicing for years, we will ensure that our patients may benefit from this opportunity as well.

Beyond this latest development, enabling patients to control these spinal cord stimuli themselves is another exciting possibility. Initially, this could be achieved using commercially available products that apply stimuli through the scalp. Furthermore, if necessary, the same control could later be provided via electrodes implanted in the patient’s brain. Studies on this are progressing rapidly at many centers, and the first successful results have already been achieved.