Does the device use Electrical Stimulation?
No, there is no electrical stimulation involved. The device uses a patented technology using a non-invasive skin sensor to detect a user’s own muscle signal then uses their myoelectric signals to power the device and move if the patient initiates a muscle contraction.
Can a patient use the device if they have a pacemaker?
Yes.
Does this restore movement to the hand?
Currently, the mPower is worn on the arm to restore elbow movement. Look for a Myomo hand product at some point in the future.
What about the shoulder?
The mPower is worn on the arm to restore elbow movement. It is important for patients to implement a good shoulder exercise/strengthening program with their therapist while working with the Myomo mPower.
What about spasticity?
Patients with moderate spasticity can still use the device. Depending on the mode and setting from the software, patients can benefit from learning how to actively use the muscle and shut off the muscle via biofeedback. Severe tone that prevents a user’s arm from being ranged out by a clinician is a contraindication.
What about patients who are flaccid?
Patients must have at least trace muscle signal to be a candidate for the device (Manual Muscle Test of 1). With a consistent training regimen a patient with a flaccid arm may potentially gain improved range of motion using device. Results will vary for every patient.
Does insurance cover it?
Myomo, Inc. can help qualified patients navigate the reimbursement process and determine if their insurance will cover the cost of the mPower. To qualify, you will need to be screened by a Myomo certified practitioner to ensure the mPower is right for you. If a certified healthcare practitioner has determined that you can benefit from the mPower, we can contact your insurance carrier to verify insurance benefits and help you complete any necessary paperwork required by the insurance company.
Is the mPower experimental technology or is it commercially available?
Myomo's product is based on myoelectric sensing, a technology first introduced for controlling powered prosthetic limbs back in 1959. So the technology is quite mature but has not been available on orthotic braces to restore movement until it was introduced by Myomo in 2008. FDA regulations requires users to obtain a doctor's prescription for the device in order to use it at home.
How long should a patient wear the device at home?
When patients begin using the device at home, they can typically wear it for 20-30 minutes per day before fatiguing. Once the patient learns to use the device effectively, it can be worn for up to 4-5 hours per day as an assistive device. Progression and results will vary for every patient. Patients should be followed by a Myomo certified therapist for a recommended wearing schedule.
Who is a candidate?
• Trace muscle signal in bicep and/or tricep
• Full passive Range of Motion at the elbow
• Able to follow simple 3-step commands
• Patients with tone may use the device
• There is no electrical stimulation, so pacemakers are not a problem
Who isn’t a candidate for the device (contraindications)?
• Shoulder dislocation (Subluxation is ok but needs to be assessed by a therapist)
• Inability to support 1 ½ pounds of weight with the affected arm
• Contracture at elbow or Modified Ashworth score of 4
• Inability to follow simple, 3-step commands
Do you need surgery to use the Myomo device?
No, surgery is not required. The device is completely non-invasive. Movement of the orthosis is controlled through an electrical signal that is sent from the muscle via a sensor placed on the surface of the skin. There is no electrical signal sent into the body.
If I get a Myomo device, when should I use it?
Your Myomo-certified therapist will help you determine the wearing schedule that is best for you. Most patients begin using the device approximately 30 minutes per day and work up to 2-3 hours a day. Some individuals choose to use their device for even longer periods. In order to encourage permanent changes in the brain it is helpful to perform as much movement as possible. At the same time, you want to be sure that you are promoting proper/healthy movement patterns. Again, your therapist can assist you to design a wearing schedule and exercise program that is best for you.
Can I use the device if I am getting injections to treat spasticity?
Yes. It is easy to re-program the device to allow for changes in spasticity levels due to medications or improvements from therapy. The device also re-calibrates each time you use it. As long as there is still a trace muscle contraction present, you will be able to control the orthosis.
Why do I need to go to therapy when I get a Myomo device?
It is important to work with a Myomo-certified therapist to ensure you get the best possible outcome from using the device. A certified therapist can change the settings that are programmed into your device as your strength improves. They will determine a wearing schedule that is optimal for you, and educate you on which particular exercises you should perform during use.
My therapist is not Myomo-certified. What should I do?
If your therapist is interested in becoming certified, please ask them to contact us via our website. One of our Clinical Support Specialists can help them complete the training process so that they can provide Myomo therapy for you when you obtain your device.
I want to get a Myomo device but I am not in therapy. What should I do?
Please refer to our list of “Clinical Partners” on our website www.myomo.com . There are therapists at these facilities that have been certified by one of our Clinical Support Specialists. You can contact the facility directly to schedule a therapy evaluation for the Myomo device. If you need assistance with setting up an appointment with a certified therapist, feel free to contact Myomo via our website, by clicking on “Contact Us”.
If there is not a Clinical Partner near you, please contact us. We can assist with training a therapist near you so that they can provide therapy when you obtain your device.
How do I use the Myomo device in therapy?
Your Myomo-certified therapist has been trained on the recommended therapy protocol by one of our clinical support specialists. They will assist you with the various exercises in the program manual. Your therapist may show you how to reduce spasticity in your arm through the volitional relaxation exercise. If you do not have spasticity, you may begin the program with functional exercises like bringing a comb to your hair or a water bottle to your mouth. Each exercise is designed to promote improved function in your arm over time.
How do I use the device at home?
Your therapist can assist you with designing a wearing schedule and home exercise program that is best for you. It is important that you follow their recommendations to get the best outcome from using the device. Most patients use the device daily to perform exercises and to assist with functional activities.
How can I try the Myomo device to see how it works?
Please contact us via our website www.myomo.com . We can help you set up an appointment with a Myomo-certified medical professional who can evaluate you for the device. During the appointment, you can see and feel how the device works on your own arm. The medical professional will discuss with you whether it is medically appropriate for you.