Improving upper limb movement after cervical spinal cord injury using brain stimulation techniques
Official title: Operant conditioning of the wrist extensor motor evoked potential to target corticospinal plasticity and upper limb motor recovery after cervical spinal cord injury
Funded at Medical University of South Carolina · NIH-11033806 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with cervical spinal cord injuries improve their arm and hand movement by using a safe brain stimulation technique that encourages their brain to better control their muscles.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Medical University of South Carolina NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | April 15, 2025 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $115,881 |
| NIH project number | 1K99HD117041-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-11033806 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic cervical spinal cord injuries who experience impaired upper limb motor control.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with complete spinal cord injuries or those without upper limb motor function may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to enhance motor recovery in individuals with cervical spinal cord injuries by using operant conditioning of motor evoked potentials (MEPs) through non-invasive brain stimulation. The goal is to improve corticospinal excitability, which is crucial for voluntary muscle control, particularly in the wrist extensor. By applying this technique, the study aims to facilitate better motor function in the upper limb for patients who have experienced chronic cervical spinal cord injuries. Participants will undergo targeted interventions designed to increase their brain's ability to activate muscles effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved motor function and independence for patients with cervical spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown that operant conditioning of motor evoked potentials is feasible and can enhance corticospinal excitability, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Medical University of South Carolina
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lewis, Allison Foster — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Lewis, Allison Foster
Related research
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This study is working on a friendly robot that can help people with tetraplegia do everyday tasks like bathing, dressing, and eating, making life a little easier and more independent while also supporting their emotional needs.
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.