onward medical introduces new therapy for partial spinal cord injuries
ONWARD Medical’s Arc-Ex Therapy shows significant improvements in hand and arm function for patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries, offering a notable increase in quality of life without serious side effects.
Innovative Approach to Spinal Cord Injuries
ONWARD Medical has unveiled a groundbreaking therapy, Arc-Ex Therapy, aimed at improving the quality of life for individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries. This innovative treatment employs electrical stimulation to enhance motor and sensory functions in the upper extremities, offering a beacon of hope for patients who face daily challenges due to their conditions.
How Arc-Ex Therapy Works
Arc-Ex Therapy utilizes targeted electrical stimulation to activate neural circuits that remain intact despite the injury. This method enhances the functionality of hand and arm movements, which are crucial for performing daily tasks. The therapy has demonstrated remarkable results, with 72% of study participants experiencing significant improvements in strength and functionality without serious side effects[1].
Conducting the Study
The efficacy of Arc-Ex Therapy was evaluated through a study involving 60 participants across 14 sites in the United States, Canada, the United Kingdom, and the Netherlands. This comprehensive research, directed by ONWARD Medical, found that patients not only improved in fingertip pinch strength and handgrip but also in their overall motor and sensory skills[1].
Safety and Long-Term Use
Safety is a critical aspect of any medical treatment, and Arc-Ex Therapy has proven to be safe for long-term use. The study reported no serious side effects related to the therapy. Of the 238 side effects noted, only 44 were related to the therapy and were classified as non-serious. This makes Arc-Ex Therapy a promising option for chronic tetraplegia patients seeking to regain independence in their daily activities[1].
Impact on Daily Life
Improvements in hand and arm functionality can significantly enhance the independence of individuals with tetraplegia. Small gains in motor skills can make a substantial difference in performing everyday tasks such as typing, cooking, and personal care. Patients reported an increased quality of life, attributing their progress to the benefits of Arc-Ex Therapy[1].
Future Prospects
Looking ahead, researchers are optimistic about the regulatory approval of Arc-Ex Therapy in the United States and Europe. ONWARD Medical is also exploring further studies involving implanted neurostimulators for more effective and targeted stimulation. The potential applications of this technology extend beyond spinal cord injuries, offering hope for other neurological conditions as well[1][2].
Company and Leadership
ONWARD Medical, headquartered in Eindhoven, Netherlands, with additional offices in Lausanne, Switzerland, and Boston, Massachusetts, is at the forefront of developing innovative solutions for spinal cord injuries. CEO Dave Marver and his team are committed to advancing therapies like Arc-Ex to restore movement, function, and independence for patients worldwide[3][4].