TheDenverChannel.com









Staying Healthy

Technology Can Help Those Paralyzed By West Nile Virus

Device Called Ness L300

POSTED: 4:27 pm MST March 1, 2007
UPDATED: 7:02 pm MST March 1, 2007

Elizabeth Zopff, 34, said she's had it with her brace and the cane that helps her walk upright.

"It digs into your skin. It's painful. It's hot,"said Zopff.

Zopff hasn't always had numbness in her leg. She contracted West Nile virus two years ago on her family farm. It left her right leg numb and devoid of motion.

"When the fever broke, just nothing, nothing was the same," said Zopff.

It's a reality Zopff has struggled with and fought to overcome. But a recent technological advancement has helped her move along.

"I walked with my cane the other day for the first time in years, two years," she said.

The wireless device, dubbed the Ness L300, is giving her back the mobility that the disease took away.

"The electrical stimulation allows the muscles to do the work that they were designed to do. The sensor under the foot communicates wirelessly with the brace," said physical therapist Amanda Barnhart.

The device forces her leg to do the work, instead of relying on the leg brace.

"It literally is completely life-changing," said Zopff.

Zopff said she already has big plans for the device but realizes it will take baby steps to get there.

"I'd like to chase my kid around the playground a little bit. That would be amazing. I'd like to walk in the grocery store and not be totally exhausted. It's difficult you realize how much you take for granted,"said Zopff.

Links We Like

Sponsored Content
Jillian Michaels of TV’s Biggest Loser has a diet and fitness plan to help you burn fat faster and stay in shape. MoreClick Here

You’ve heard of certain foods that can help you prevent cancer and even halt the spread of the disease. Find out if these anti-cancer foods really work. More

If your credit is shabby, you'll need to shore up your score to convince a lender you're worthy. Here's how to boost your point total. More

In the workplace it’s the little things that get you noticed and help you stand out above the rest. Do these things and increase your chances for a promotion. More

Sponsored Links

Get Healthy!

10 expert tips to promote a healthier heart. Learn why the “full-fat” version of food is often better than the “low-fat” version. More

Caregiving

How To Talk About Incontinence
Caring.com
How To Talk About Incontinence, Including Who Should Do The Talking, When To Have The Conversation, And How To Avoid Emotional Land Mines. More Details