
RPNI Study Discussion with University of Michigan
From Be-YOU-tiful Adaptive Warrior by Angie Heuser
June 10, 2026 · 56 min · Season 6 · Episode 23
About this episode
The episode discusses innovative research on prosthetic technology for above-knee amputees with PhD students from the University of Michigan.
Join the Movement for Above Knee Amputees       What if joining the movement means becoming part of the future of amputee care? In this episode of the BAWarrior Podcast, I had the honor of sitting down with Jake and Hiva, two PhD students from the University of Michigan, who are working on research that could help shape the future of prosthetic technology for above-knee amputees. This conversation was personal for me because I know what it feels like to step into the unknown for the sake of healing, hope, and future possibilities. Last year, I chose to take part in an experimental surgical procedure, and I know the questions, fears, and emotions that come with making that kind of decision. It is not easy to say yes to something new, especially when it involves your body, your mobility, and your future. Jake and Hiva are currently working with RPNI, which stands for Regenerative Peripheral Nerve Interface. In simple terms, this procedure helps give nerves a new place to grow by wrapping them in small muscle grafts. These “muscle burritos,” as Jake described them, may help researchers better understand movement intention and even explore how a person could one day…
People in this episode
Host: Angie Heuser
Guests: Jake, Hiva
Topics covered
- amputee care
- prosthetic technology
- surgical procedures
- nerve regeneration
- mobility
Keywords
- above-knee amputees
- prosthetics
- RPNI
- nerve interface
- muscle grafts
Mentioned in this episode
Organizations: University of Michigan, RPNI
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