Amazing progress for Ryan Straschnitzki
Posted Nov 12, 2019 8:09 am.
Last Updated Nov 12, 2019 8:10 am.
THAILAND (660 NEWS) – One week after undergoing experimental spinal surgery, former Humboldt Bronco Ryan Straschnitzki is making a remarkable recovery.
Ryan’s dad Tom posted a video to his Twitter page showing Ryan straightening his leg and bending it from a seated position without any help.
The 20-year-old Airdrie resident does this all with his therapists looking on.
https://twitter.com/strazsr/status/1193888745914654720
Straschnitzki travelled to Thailand to have the surgery, which installed an epidural stimulator in his spine, sending electrical currents to move his limbs.
WATCH: Straschnitzki undergoes surgery in Thailand
The implant will be programmed over the next few weeks to stimulate certain nerves mapped out by surgeons and therapists.
The surgery can cost up to $100,000 but isn’t covered by health care or insurance. It’s also performed in countries such as the United States and Switzerland, but cheaper in Thailand
Ryan and his father are expected to stay in Thailand until early December.
With files from The Canadian Press