After experiencing a stroke or brain injury, the simplest movements like putting one foot in front of the other or lifting an arm to open a door can be daunting for patients. Computer-assisted devices can now offer patients an alternative to traditional physical rehabilitation and medical treatment.

A small pump filled with an antispasmodic drug that is implanted in the abdomen and controlled remotely can change a patient’s life, according to Dr. Stanley Fisher, co-director of the Movement Disorders and Neuro-Rehabilitation Center at the Methodist Neurological Institute.

“The pump releases an exact dose of medication directly to the affected area. I can program the pump via computer and change dosages simply by putting a wand over the patient’s abdomen,” said Fisher. “This pump is just one example of how we’re able to use advance computer technology to help patients regain mobility and restore quality of life.”

A robotically-enhanced treadmill called AutoAmbulator is geared for patients who suffered strokes, brain injuries and spinal cord injuries, as well as Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis. This advanced neuro-rehabilitation device offers robotic arms to move patients’ legs. Another device is an upper extremity robotic joystick, which helps patients to regain function of their arms. There is also a visual restoration device available for patients who have suffered visual loss due to stroke. Fisher is also involved in ongoing research on the use of virtual reality rooms to treat patients with severe brain injuries, strokes and other neurological problems.

“These devices represent a growing field of neuro-rehabilitation technology that we can offer to patients who, in the past, didn’t have many rehabilitation options. I’ve had patients who couldn’t walk 25 feet before. After just a dozen sessions, they can walk that distance and more,” said Fisher, who is also assistant professor of neurology at Weill Medical College of Cornell University.

About the Methodist Neurological Institute

The Methodist Neurological Institute houses the practice and research activities of the departments of neurology, neurosurgery, neuroradiology, neuro-oncology and neuro-rehabilitation of The Methodist Hospital. The close collaboration between these departments offers patients the most advanced treatment options available. The mission of the NI is to advance the discovery of the origins, mechanisms and treatment of neurological disease and to provide comprehensive care for patients with disorders and injuries of the brain and spinal cord.

The Methodist Hospital is one of the nation’s largest private, non-profit general hospitals. Methodist is primarily affiliated with Weill Medical College of Cornell University and New York Presbyterian Hospital. The hospital is also affiliated with the University of Houston.

Methodist is ranked among the country’s top centers in six specialties in U.S News & World Report’s 2006 America’s Best Hospitals issue. The hospital ranked in more specialties than any other hospital in Houston, and is 10th on the list for neurology and neurosurgery.

Methodist Hospital, Houston