New Treatment for Acute Flaccid Myelitis Developed

Researchers at the Kennedy Krieger Institute have made significant strides in treating children with Acute Flaccid Myelitis (AFM), a rare neurological condition that can lead to sudden paralysis. A new study published in the journal Children demonstrates that a combination of Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation (TSS) and movement training resulted in notable improvements in mobility among four pediatric patients. Over 22 therapy sessions, three children increased their walking distance, while two exhibited gains in posture, speed, and overall walking function. TSS, a non-invasive method that applies electrical currents to the spine, amplifies signals from the brain, facilitating muscle activation. The research, which highlights the potential of TSS as a safer alternative to invasive surgeries, signifies a promising advance in neurorehabilitation. According to the CDC, AFM affects about one in a million children in the U.S. annually, often following a viral infection.