MYOLYN, a name that supports our vision to overcome neurological disorders.

What MYOLYN Stands For

People often ask how we came up with the name MYOLYN. It comes from the Greek prefix “myo-” which means “muscle” and “lyn” which is Norwegian for lightning, hence “Muscle Lightning.”

We started MYOLYN with the vision of using functional electrical stimulation (FES) to help people with neurological disorders achieve ambitious health and athletic goals and a better quality of life.

MYOLYN is also a homophone with myelin—the tissue surrounding the nerves. This tissue insulates the nerves, much like insulation around wiring. Myelin channels nerve impulses to the desired muscle destination. Without myelin, the nerves have a hard time communicating with the muscles. This effect appears in people with multiple sclerosis (MS), which is a condition where myelin breaks down over time.

MYOLYN’s technology, through FES, uses electrodes attached to the skin to channel electrical impulses into a person’s muscles. A computer controls these impulses based on the position of the person’s arms or legs, timing the impulses to maximize the rhythmic muscle contractions needed for functional movement.

The technology works with anyone who has intact nerves and muscles in the limbs—even if the person is completely paralyzed, FES can allow someone without volitional control of their muscles to exercise those muscles. This provides several remarkable benefits, including:

• Relaxation of muscle spasms
• Prevention of muscle atrophy
• Increased local blood flow
• Muscle re-education
• Maintaining or increasing joint range of motion

We have combined our own FES technology with smart motor control and great design to develop a line of rehabilitation and mobility devices that allow people with muscle weakness or paralysis to take control of their health—whether they are in the rehab clinic, at home, or out on the bike path. To learn more, check out the MyoCycle Home and the MyoCycle Pro. You can see more of the MyoCycle in the video below from the Cybathlon.

While our objective is to help those with loss of muscle control, we know that the effect on the brain is even more important. Being able to set and reach goals to achieve a greater sense of ability and a better quality of life is key to helping people—whatever their abilities—to power their own potential. At MYOLYN, we are inspired by the hard work, perseverance, and courage of those who face immeasurable challenges and seek to use technology to build devices that assist them in achieving their goals.