Article

The paralysis resulting from spinal cord injury severely limits voluntary
seated-posture control and increases predisposition to a number of health risks.
We developed and verified a musculoskeletal model of the hips and lumbar spine
using published data. We then used the model to select the optimal muscles
for-and evaluate the likely functional recovery benefit of-an 8-channel
seated-posture-control neuroprosthesis based on functional electrical stimulation
(FES). We found that the model-predicted optimal muscle set included the erector
spinae, oblique abdominals, gluteus maximus, and iliopsoas. We mapped muscle
excitations to seated trunk posture so that the required excitations at any
posture could be approximated using a static map. Using the optimal muscle set,
the model predicted a maximum stimulated range of motion of 49 degrees flexion, 9
degrees extension, and 16 degrees lateral bend. In the nominal upright posture,
the modeled user could hold almost 15 kg with arms at sides and elbows bent. We
discuss in this article the practicality of using FES with the oblique
abdominals. A seated-posture-control neuroprosthesis would increase the user's
bimanual work space and include several secondary benefits.

Langue : ANGLAIS