MyndMove Therapy (upper extremities)
What is MyndMove?
MyndMove is a new and exciting modality developed by MyndTec Inc. right here in Canada! Using an 8-channelled functional electrical stimulation (FES) device, MyndMove’s aim is to improve purposeful movement of a client’s arm and hand. Different from a typical FES system, MyndMove is a dynamic therapy where a patient actively attempts a desired movement assisted by a therapist while being stimulated. It is the hope that with this therapy, an individual would regain purposeful movement patterns to achieve more independence and in turn, improve their quality of life. Currently, MyndMove is helping to treat paralysis in individuals that have suffered from a stroke or a spinal cord injury.
How does it work?
It stimulates the neural pathways engaged when practicing and executing functional movements. MyndMove delivers electrical stimulation to the muscles and then the muscles send a signal to the brain. When patients actively attempt a movement, this sends a signal down to the muscle. Based on the concept of neuroplasticity, a new pathway for the desired movement is established.
There have been numerous clinical studies looking at the effectiveness of MyndMove on recovery. The results have shown that people with high level spinal cord injuries (C1-C7) and anyone with a stroke (acute or chronic) has had some lasting recovery in their upper extremities after an intensive bout with MyndMove therapy.