We all know firsthand that music can improve your mood, but it can also have real, measurable effects on brain chemistry. A Portland-based startup tech company is developing a new device that’s designed to improve mobility in people who’ve had strokes by retraining the brain to walk again, using the music of their choice.

At a coworking space in Portland, neurologic music therapist Brian Harris works with two stroke survivors. He and his team at MedRhythms are testing a device dubbed The Stride that they hope will soon revolutionize the world of music therapy.

“With them it’s like, oh my goodness. I felt like I was walking so fast. I’ve never walked that fast in my life. I felt like I wanted to run,” says Deb Hanmer, who is participating in the trials.

Hanmer had a stroke 20 years ago and has since undergone many different therapies.

“I have physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy. I’ve done yoga … Thai massage,” she says.