Investigating how brain and spinal cord function affects walking in children with cerebral palsy
Dynamic Imaging of Cerebral Palsy Gait
This study is looking at how the brain and spinal cord work together to help kids with cerebral palsy walk better, using safe imaging techniques to learn more about their movements and senses, so we can find better ways to support them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Father Flanagan's Boys' Home NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Boys Town, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10909942 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on understanding the neurological factors that influence walking in children with cerebral palsy (CP). By using advanced brain imaging techniques like magnetoencephalography (MEG) and high-resolution MRI, the study aims to identify how brain activity and spinal cord integrity affect leg movements and sensory processing. The goal is to fill knowledge gaps regarding the sensorimotor challenges faced by youth with CP, which could lead to improved treatment strategies. Participants will undergo non-invasive imaging to help researchers gather data on their motor actions and sensory integration.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and adolescents diagnosed with cerebral palsy, particularly those experiencing mobility challenges.
Not a fit: Patients without a diagnosis of cerebral palsy or those who are not within the age range of 12 to 20 years may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to more effective therapies that enhance mobility and quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research using similar imaging techniques has shown promise in understanding motor function in neurological conditions, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Where this research is happening
Boys Town, United States
- Father Flanagan's Boys' Home — Boys Town, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kurz, Max J — Father Flanagan's Boys' Home
- Study coordinator: Kurz, Max J
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.