Natural nerves improve robotic leg performance

 

NEW YORK, Sept 26:  Redirecting nerves from the thigh muscle to control an experimental robotic leg makes it easier to use and more like a natural leg, researchers report. The leg’s movements are guided by the patient’s original nerves, which have been redirected to a small area of the thigh muscle. The robotic leg senses the unconscious muscle movements and translates them into movements for the knee and ankle of the 10-pound device. (agencies)