A groundbreaking study led by researchers from UCL Medical Physics and Biomedical Engineering and funded by the RFU Injured Players Foundation is offering new hope for individuals living with spinal cord injuries. The research focuses on the use of Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) cycling, a technique that stimulates leg muscles using electrical impulses to enable cycling motion, even in those with limited or no voluntary movement.
At the centre of the study is the iCycle, a specially developed FES cycling machine that integrates virtual reality to enhance user engagement and simulate real-world cycling experiences. The UCL team, led by Professor Nick Donaldson and Dr Lynsey Duffell, is investigating how this technology can improve muscle strength, cardiovascular health, and potentially restore some voluntary movement in people with incomplete spinal cord injuries.
The study targets individuals who are “marginal walkers”—those who retain some ability to walk but with significant difficulty. By combining FES with real-time feedback and immersive environments, the researchers aim to better understand the neuroplasticity and biomechanical changes that occur during rehabilitation.
Early findings suggest that regular use of FES cycling may not only improve physical health but also enhance neural recovery, offering a promising avenue for long-term rehabilitation. This research underscores the department’s research in advancing assistive technologies and improving outcomes for people with life-changing injuries.
Read the full article on the RFU Injured Players Foundation website
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Professor of Neuroprosthesis Engineering
Associate Professor
