China’s self-powered neural device helps stroke survivors walk naturally

Scientists have developed a lightweight, battery-free device that could help improve the mobility of people with difficulty walking, such as stroke survivors.

Developed by researchers in Hong Kong and mainland China, the neural prosthesis uses energy generated by the wearer’s own movements to electrically stimulate their muscles, helping to flex their ankle and restore their natural walking pattern.

This could prevent falls for stroke survivors, elderly individuals, and others living with mobility impairments. The researchers behind the device also said it could even be used by athletes during training.

“Rather than relying on external sensors or battery-powered control, the device operates automatically during walking through mechanically coupled energy harvesting and stimulation delivery,” the team said in a paper published in the peer-reviewed journal Nature Communications on September 2.

Requiring just a few steps to power up, the device helped to increase stride length and walking speed in stroke survivors during both indoor treadmill trials and outdoor walking tests.