Neural Interfaces for Mobility and Pain in Cerebral Palsy

Alistair Mcewan, Joe Dusseldorp1, Claudia Gschwind2, Timothy Scott2, Tomas Andersen3, Gregg Suaning4

  • 1University of Sydney
  • 2Royal North Shore Hospital, Sydney
  • 3The University of Sydney
  • 4The University of New South Wales

Details

08:45 - 09:00 | Wed 24 Jul | Hall A5 - Level 1 | WeA06.2

Session: Pediatric Rehabilitation: Novel Devices and Interventions 

Abstract

Abstract— Cerebral Palsy is the most common childhood disability with no cure and delayed diagnosis. There are however opportunities to provide assistance via electrical control of muscle groups, spasticity and sensory perception including pain management. Challenges include developmental differences and intact afferent pathways that may convey pain. We see opportunities in both central and peripheral implanted stimulation and monitoring. While this appears to be a challenging topic for children we should take inspiration from the clear success engineers have delivered via early neural intervention with cochlear implants in providing lifelong benefits to recipients in the restoration of auditory function.