Wired for Life
By Carol Moore-Ede
Canadian Broadcasting Corporation

Functional Electrical Stimulation technology (FES) is designed to interface technology with muscles and nerves in an attempt to restore some level of function for people with central nervous system disabilities. This documentary visits several experimental programs which are using implanted electrodes, controlled by external computer devices, to enable people with spinal cord injuries to stand, transfer and, under controlled conditions, even to walk.

Other developments shown have made it possible for quadriplegic patients to regain the use of their arms and hands. The video combines clear scientific explanations with the moving stories of several articulate patients, who are honest about the frustrations they've experienced and the unremitting hard work they have had to put in, but who are exited about what they have achieved, and optimistic about future developments. This program will be a valuable update for rehabilitation specialists and students, and an eye-opening introduction to new rehab technologies for all audiences.

DVD version has both closed-captions and audio description.

54 minutes
© 2002
Purchase $229 DVD
Order No. QA-353
ISBN (DVD) 1-57295-883-9

Reviews
"Highly Recommended, this film is a unique blend of real-life interviews, computer animation, and open discussion with the experts and scientists who are working in this area. It is truly amazing what can be dome currently in FES, and the future looks very bright for its further development and application." Brad Eden, PhD, Educational Media Reviews

Awards & Conference Screenings
Finalist: Clinical Science & Special People Categories
International Health and Medical Film Competition

Related Films
Breakaway: This provocative documentary tells the story of the conflicted relationship between two men coping with the consequences of severe, traumatic brain injury.

Not on the Sidelines: Profiles four ordinary people whose lives were suddenly changed by injury or illness when they were teens or young adults. Challenging their disabilities, they have created new, active, and rewarding lives.

Living with Spinal Cord Injury Series: The producer, himself injured in a helicopter crash, brings a unique perspective to this classic three-part series on coming to terms with spinal cord injury. These films offer enduring proof that "a tough break doesn't have to mean a ruined life."

How We Play: For the people we see in this video, disabilities are a challenge, not an obstacle, to the enjoyment of vigorous outdoor sports.

Breakaway: This provocative documentary tells the story of the conflicted relationship between two men coping with the consequences of severe, traumatic brain injury.

If I Can't Do It
Kiss My Wheels: Through an exhilarating season of training and competition, the members of a junior wheelchair basketball team deal with difficult issues, from gender conflicts to injury, illness, and thoughts of death.

To rent or purchase this film, please visit the Icarus Films website

HOME  ||  TITLE INDEX  ||  SUBJECT AREAS  ||  RESOURCES  ||  RETURN TO TOP
CONTACT FANLIGHT  ||  FAQ