Chris Infotainment

The Spine: A Vital Component of Human Life The spine is often described as the backbone of human existence, both figuratively and literally. It provides structural support, enables mobility, and protects the spinal cord, which is central to communication between the brain and the rest of the body. However, in many parts of Nigeria today, a growing number of individuals are living without the full functionality of their spines. Paralysis, resulting from spinal cord injuries and diseases, has become an alarming medical and social challenge that demands urgent attention. Spinal cord injuries are among the most devastating health conditions because they affect nearly every aspect of a person’s life. From loss of mobility to dependence on caregivers, victims face physical, emotional, and financial hardships. Families are thrust into long-term caregiving roles, often without institutional support. Health facilities, already burdened, struggle to provide comprehensive rehabilitation service...

Innovating Healthcare Solutions in Nepal In the heart of Kathmandu, the Spinal Injury Rehabilitation Centre houses a unique space known as the wheelchair graveyard room. This room is filled with hundreds of wheelchairs that once provided mobility to patients but now sit broken and unusable. Most of these wheelchairs were donated from various parts of the world, and due to their different brands and models, even minor damages render them irreparable. To address this issue, researchers at the Design Lab, a mechanical engineering lab based at Kathmandu University, are working on producing essential medical devices locally for patients with disabilities. Their goal is to make these devices more affordable and tailored to the specific needs of Nepali patients. Localising Medical Device Manufacturing Led by Assistant Professor Pratisthit Lal Shrestha, the Design Lab was established in 2019 to create a space where engineers can bring their ideas to life. The lab has since grown significan...