High-Tech Device Helps Stroke Patients Walk Normally From: Rehab Management - Rehab Today News Rush University Medical Center is offering a high-tech device to help brain injury patients regain the ability to walk more naturally and improve mobility. The device, called the NESS L300 neuro-rehabilitation system, is a lightweight wireless leg brace worn on the lower leg. Small sensors placed by the heel of the foot detect whether the patient's foot is in the air or on the ground. Electrodes transmit painless electronic stimulation to the peroneal nerve to activate the calf muscle and correct the patient's gait. When weight is taken off the patient's foot, the brace sends a signal to contract muscles inside the calf allowing the foot to swing forward. "Foot drop is a condition where the muscles in the foot are too weak to properly lift the foot, heel, and toes while walking," says James A. Young, MD, medical director of physical medicine and rehabilitation at Rush. "It is often present in patients who have suffered a stroke, traumatic brain injury, incomplete spinal cord injury, multiple sclerosis, and cerebral palsy." According to Young, the device is beneficial not only for patients who have recently suffered traumatic brain injuries, but also for patients who have suffered from several years of immobility, or from strokes they have had several years ago. The NESS L300 is offered on an inpatient and outpatient basis at Rush. Links: Rush University Medical Center http://www.rush.edu/ Ness L300 is manufactured by Bioness Inc. http://www.bioness.com/ James A. Young, MD http://www.rush.edu/rumc/page-R11719.html