Non-invasive electrical nerve block to reduce muscle spasticity
Official title: Transcutaneous Direct Current Motor Nerve Block for Spasticity
Funded at Case Western Reserve University · NIH-10814406 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help people with muscle tightness, like those with cerebral palsy, stroke, or spinal cord injuries, by using a gentle electrical technique that can reduce unwanted nerve signals and improve movement.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Case Western Reserve University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2021 |
| Project end | March 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $390,424 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS116009-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10814406 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research include individuals with spasticity due to conditions such as cerebral palsy, stroke, or spinal cord injury.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spasticity not caused by neurological conditions or those who do not respond to electrical stimulation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates a novel approach to alleviate muscle spasticity using a non-invasive electrical nerve block technique. By applying direct current through the skin, the study aims to interrupt unwanted nerve impulses that contribute to increased muscle tone and associated disabilities. The methodology involves developing and testing specialized surface electrodes to ensure effective delivery of the electrical stimulation. Patients with conditions like cerebral palsy, stroke, or spinal cord injury may benefit from this innovative treatment that promises rapid, reversible, and gradable effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from debilitating muscle spasticity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using electrical nerve blocks for similar conditions, indicating potential for success in this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Vrabec, Tina Louise — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Vrabec, Tina Louise
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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Wearable exoskeleton that provides on-demand leg stretching for people with spasticity
This project offers a wearable robotic device that provides on-demand leg stretching to help people with spasticity from spinal cord injury or brain injury reduce spasms and improve movement.
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Non-invasive spinal stimulation to help kids with cerebral palsy move and reduce stiffness
This study tests a non-invasive spinal stimulation plus treadmill training to reduce spasticity and improve walking in children with cerebral palsy.
-
Shockwave therapy to help reduce spasticity after spinal cord injury
A randomized, sham-controlled trial will test whether extracorporeal shockwave therapy can lessen muscle tightness in people with spinal cord injuries.
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Non-Addictive Nose Spray Nerve Block for Quick Migraine Relief
A new nasal nerve-blocking treatment being tested to relieve migraine attacks quickly without addictive drugs.
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Block a nerve to help with opioid use disorder when on buprenorphine
A new study will test whether injecting a local anesthetic near a facial nerve (SPG block) as an add-on to buprenorphine treatment can reduce withdrawal symptoms and improve treatment acceptance for people with opioid use disorder who use fentanyl.
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Cerebellum-targeted deep brain stimulation for severe movement problems and spasticity in cerebral palsy
This project tests whether implanted electrodes that stimulate a cerebellar motor area can reduce severe involuntary movements and muscle tightness in children and young adults with cerebral palsy.
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.