Communication and ALS: The New Frontier

HealthDay News recently discussed a new study that is on the very frontier of utilizing brain imaging to help those with locked-in syndrome communicate. A new development in brain imaging and computer technology may be key in helping people with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS), also known as Lou Gehrig’s Disease, communicate while being “locked-in.”

Using advanced imaging technique and electroencephalography, researchers studied the function of the brain while people with ALS responded to yes/no questions. Patients were trained in advance to mentally focus on their answers causing, what researchers are suspecting, a change in blood flow and oxygenation. Check out how this information can be used to help patients communicate!