Tactile Sensory Feedback in Upper-limb Amputees

In order to truly translate hand prostheses research into real-world applications, and “close the loop” for a bidirectional prosthesis, Advancement in sensory feedback is required. One method for conveying non-invasive sensory feedback to users involves transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS). This technique involves the delivery of electrical impulses to the skin’s surface, thereby generating action potentials in the underlying neurons and creating tactile sensations. The benefits of TENS include its non-invasiveness, which reduces the risk of infection and complications associated with surgical implants. Additionally, TENS allows for adjustable stimulation parameters, enabling customization of sensory feedback for individual users. This flexibility can accommodate different levels of sensitivity and adapt to changes over time. Moreover, TENS is relatively low-cost and has a small footprint making it a practical option for widespread implementation. Furthermore, TENS has been shown to have therapeutic benefits, such as pain relief, which can be particularly beneficial for amputees experiencing phantom limb pain. Overall, the integration of TENS into prosthetic devices represents a significant step forward in improving the functionality and user experience of artificial limbs, bringing us closer to the goal of restoring natural sensory feedback in prosthetics.

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Franklin Leong ([email protected])