Foot drop, for anyone who doesn't know, is a symptom of multiple sclerosis, in which it is difficult to lift the front part of your foot. Sound like a minor problem? Try walking or driving with foot drop. In fact, foot drop can lead to a huge decrease in quality of life and an increase in disability. In multiple sclerosis, foot drop occurs because the message from the brain to "lift" doesn't make it all the way to the foot. The foot itself is just fine, just waiting for "orders."
Bioness has designed and released a device that bypasses the brain. By putting a sensor on a shoe, the device "knows" what the foot should be doing when someone is walking. The device then signals a second device, strapped to the calf, that has the ability to stimulate the nerves and cause the muscles in the calf to "operate" the foot.
I can't endorse the product outright, but this seems like a very plausible way of dealing with foot drop and I am encouraged that there are developments in the treatment of multiple sclerosis symptoms. Devices cost around $7,000 and right now I have no idea if insurance would cover that cost.
Find out more by clicking on th4e Bioness Sponsorship Logo found on our website
Bioness has designed and released a device that bypasses the brain. By putting a sensor on a shoe, the device "knows" what the foot should be doing when someone is walking. The device then signals a second device, strapped to the calf, that has the ability to stimulate the nerves and cause the muscles in the calf to "operate" the foot.
I can't endorse the product outright, but this seems like a very plausible way of dealing with foot drop and I am encouraged that there are developments in the treatment of multiple sclerosis symptoms. Devices cost around $7,000 and right now I have no idea if insurance would cover that cost.
Find out more by clicking on th4e Bioness Sponsorship Logo found on our website
Source for the above Bioness information was found at about.com:MS
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2 comments:
I use a bioness L-300, mine was $6000.00 and as far as I know insurance doesn`t cover this devise, but it has made a huge difference along with exercise in my ability to ambulate.
If you can't afford one, a simple drop foot brace will do the trick. It fits into your shoe and costs less than $1000. Insurance definitely covers it with a prescription that any doctor can give you.
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