Innovation: Straight back
Your support helps us to tell the story
From reproductive rights to climate change to Big Tech, The Independent is on the ground when the story is developing. Whether it's investigating the financials of Elon Musk's pro-Trump PAC or producing our latest documentary, 'The A Word', which shines a light on the American women fighting for reproductive rights, we know how important it is to parse out the facts from the messaging.
At such a critical moment in US history, we need reporters on the ground. Your donation allows us to keep sending journalists to speak to both sides of the story.
The Independent is trusted by Americans across the entire political spectrum. And unlike many other quality news outlets, we choose not to lock Americans out of our reporting and analysis with paywalls. We believe quality journalism should be available to everyone, paid for by those who can afford it.
Your support makes all the difference.Doctors in Holland have devised a method of correcting spine deformities using implants of a new material called 'memory metal'.
At 25C the metal can easily be moulded into the shape of the deformed spine. When it is implanted in the body the metal warms up and tries to spring back to its original shape. The implant continually exerts force on the spine, thereby eventually straightening it.
Current treatment involves straightening the spine as much as possible and then inserting a rigid implant to keep it in position. The drawback is that the back never straightens completely and the implant remains rigid.
The first clinical trials of the new implant will take place later this year.
Join our commenting forum
Join thought-provoking conversations, follow other Independent readers and see their replies
Comments