Improving breathing function in patients with spinal cord injuries using spinal cord stimulation
Epidural spinal cord stimulation and respiratory motor function after injury
This study is looking at how a special treatment called epidural spinal cord stimulation can help people with spinal cord injuries breathe better, by working together with a unique breathing training program to improve their lung function and muscle control.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Louisville NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Louisville, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11045781 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates how epidural spinal cord stimulation can enhance respiratory motor function in individuals with spinal cord injuries. By combining this stimulation with a specialized respiratory training protocol, the study aims to activate and reorganize spinal motor networks responsible for breathing. Patients will undergo assessments using surface electromyography to monitor muscle activation patterns and pulmonary function, helping to identify effective stimulation parameters. The ultimate goal is to establish a new standard of care for respiratory rehabilitation in these patients.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic spinal cord injuries who experience respiratory motor control deficits.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries who do not have respiratory motor control deficits may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve respiratory function and quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in improving respiratory function through similar approaches, indicating potential for success in this study.
Where this research is happening
Louisville, United States
- University of Louisville — Louisville, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Ovechkin, Alexander Vladimirovich — University of Louisville
- Study coordinator: Ovechkin, Alexander Vladimirovich
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.