[Improvement of prostheses and orthotic aids for the handicapped using electric stimulation and the registration of bioelectric signals].

Electro-mechanical devices can help a variety of patients with motor disabilities. Surface EMG from remaining muscles in an amputated arm can be used to control powered electronic hands, wrists and elbows. Sensory signals such as knee angle and ankle torque can be used to control the visco-elastic properties of a knee joint for above-knee amputees. Finally, percutaneous electrodes can be used to stimulate paralyzed muscles to replace hand function in quadriplegics and leg function in paraplegics. This article summarizes recent progress in each of these areas.