Improving walking for stroke survivors with a special device
Customizable cooperative multi-joint control to enhance walking mobility after stroke
['FUNDING_R01'] · CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY · NIH-11131009
This project is developing an implanted device to help stroke survivors with walking difficulties move more safely and independently.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_R01'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11131009 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
Many stroke survivors struggle with slow walking and a higher risk of falls, which can limit their daily activities and lead to isolation. Current therapies don't fully help those with moderate to severe walking problems achieve independent community walking speeds. This work aims to restore the ability to walk safely and independently using a small device placed inside the body. This device sends gentle electrical pulses to activate leg muscles in a coordinated way, helping the entire limb move for walking.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: This opportunity is for stroke survivors who experience moderate to severe difficulties with walking and are at increased risk of falls.
Not a fit: Patients who do not have walking difficulties due to stroke or those with very mild impairment may not directly benefit from this specific intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this device could help stroke survivors walk faster and more safely, allowing them greater independence in their daily lives.
How similar studies have performed: Our team has previously shown in a case study that stimulating muscles throughout the affected leg can significantly improve walking speed and endurance.
Where this research is happening
CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES
- CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY — CLEVELAND, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: MAKOWSKI, NATHANIEL STEVEN — CASE WESTERN RESERVE UNIVERSITY
- Study coordinator: MAKOWSKI, NATHANIEL STEVEN
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.