Finding the right dose of brain stimulation to treat depression in people with spinal cord injuries

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This research investigates how to effectively use repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to treat depression in individuals who have experienced spinal cord injuries. The study aims to determine the appropriate dosing of rTMS, as current methods may not be suitable for many patients with upper extremity impairments. By focusing on this specific population, the research seeks to improve treatment outcomes and enhance the quality of life for those affected by depression after spinal cord injury. Participants will be closely monitored to assess the effectiveness and safety of the treatment.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
  Charleston, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Vanderwerker, Catherine Jefferson — Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
• Study coordinator: Vanderwerker, Catherine Jefferson

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

• Finding the right rTMS dose for depression after spinal cord injury

  This project tests a new way to set rTMS treatment levels so people with spinal cord injury who have depression can get safe, effective brain stimulation.

  NIH research Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center · Charleston, United States · NIH-11222672

• Corticospinal neurons and recovery of precise forelimb movement after spinal cord injury

  This project studies how spine injuries change brain circuits and whether targeted rehabilitation helps restore precise forelimb movement.

  NIH research Weill Medical Coll of Cornell Univ · New York, United States · NIH-11628900

• How baclofen and spinal cord stimulation interact in people with spinal cord injury

  This study looks at how a common antispasmodic medicine (baclofen) works together with spinal cord stimulation in people who have spinal cord injuries and live with spasticity.

  NIH research Mayo Clinic Rochester · Rochester, United States · NIH-11625970

• Biotype-based Personalization of Antidepressant Augmentation in Late-Life Depression

  A multi-site study will test a computer-guided approach to choosing the best augmentation option for older adults with treatment-resistant depression.

  NIH research Washington University · Saint Louis, United States · NIH-11625616

• Targeting spinal cord inflammation with a new HuR inhibitor to help SCI patients

  A new treatment approach uses a small molecule to block a brain-spinal inflammation regulator (HuR) that drives harmful inflammation after spinal cord injury, aiming to lessen damage and pain for people with SCI.

  NIH research Birmingham VA Medical Center · Birmingham, United States · NIH-11617294

• Suubi-Mhealth: a mobile app to help Ugandan youth with HIV manage depression and ART adherence

  A mobile app designed for 14–17 year olds in Uganda aims to support mental health and keep HIV treatment on track.

  NIH research Washington University · Saint Louis, United States · NIH-11614513

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.