Three paraplegics are able to walk again thanks to a revolutionary spinal cord implant

Three paraplegics have been able to walk, swim and cycle for the first time in years after being fitted with a revolutionary spinal cord implant. The device, which works by stimulating the region of the spinal cord that activates the trunk and leg muscles, was so effective that the patients were all able to stand and walk just one day after it was activated, researchers said. It is controlled by artificial intelligence (AI) software which reactivates neurons via a pacemaker inserted into a person's abdomen. Italian-born Michel Roccati, 29, had been confined to a wheelchair for over four years after losing the use of his legs in a motorbike crash, and was one of the three men to test the implant. He said: 'The first few steps were incredible -- a dream come true.'