Magee physical therapists participated in a one-and-a-half day training session for a new functional electrical stimulation (FES) device that will be used for both inpatients and for outpatients at the Riverfront.

The Bioness NESS L300 helps patients with foot drop regain lost mobility and recapture a more normal gait pattern. This new wireless technology will be used for a number of conditions, including stroke, TBI, multiple sclerosis, and incomplete SCI.

The NESS L300 works via electrical stimulation and consists of three main components: a sensor, a microprocessor, and a control unit.

The sensor in the shoe identifies the walking stage of the paralyzed foot. It then transmits a wireless signal to a microprocessor attached underneath the knee. The NESS L300 system releases a suitable and perfectly-timed electronic pulse to the nerves and muscles that activate the paralyzed foot so as to facilitate the user’s next step. The electronic stimulus replaces the nerve signal that would otherwise have arrived from the brain. The device can be installed and operated by patients, even if they have a disability in their arms.

The NESS L300 units, which will be used for Magee patients, were purchased through the Jerry Segal Classic Fund.