Creating a device to help people with paralysis use their hands at home

Development of FES+BMI Neuroprosthesis for At-Home Use for Persons with Chronic Tetraplegia

NIH-funded research Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center · NIH-11000647

This study is testing a new device that helps people with paralysis in their arms and hands regain control of their movements, so they can do everyday tasks like eating on their own, and we’re looking for participants to help us make it work better for home use.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLouis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11000647 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a neuroprosthesis that allows individuals with chronic tetraplegia to regain control of their hand movements using a brain-machine interface combined with functional electrical stimulation. The device aims to enable users to perform essential daily activities, such as self-feeding, by interpreting their brain signals and stimulating their muscles accordingly. Previous studies have shown promise in controlled environments, and this project seeks to adapt the technology for safe and effective use in home settings. Participants will be involved in testing and refining this innovative system to enhance their quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic tetraplegia due to spinal cord injury who are seeking to regain hand functionality.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions that do not involve paralysis or those who do not have the capacity to engage with the technology may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the independence and daily functioning of patients with chronic tetraplegia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown success with similar brain-machine interface technologies, indicating a promising potential for this novel application.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.