Gert-Jan Oskam, a 40-year-old man from the Netherlands, regained the ability to walk after 12 years of paralysis caused by a spinal cord injury from a cycling accident. This became possible thanks to the innovative “brain-spine” technology developed by Swiss researchers.
The system includes two implants: one in the brain and another in the spinal cord. When Oskam thinks about moving, the brain implant captures these signals and transmits them to the spinal implant, which stimulates the leg muscles. This allows him to stand, walk, climb stairs, and navigate complex terrain.
After 40 neurorehabilitation sessions with this system, Oskam regained control over leg and foot movements. Notably, he can walk with crutches even without the implants actively functioning, suggesting possible restoration of neural connections.
Researchers plan to miniaturize the equipment and extend the technology’s applications to hand movement restoration and stroke recovery. They hope this technology will become widely available in the coming years.
