Restoring sensation in amputated limbs for veterans with diabetic neuropathy

Functional and Neuroprotective Effects of Restoring Lower Limb Sensation after Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy

NIH-funded research Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center · NIH-11262790

This study is looking to help veterans who have lost lower limbs due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy by using special electrodes to create sensations that feel like they're coming from their missing foot, which could improve their daily activities and overall limb health.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionLouis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Cleveland, United States)
Project IDNIH-11262790 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on helping veterans with diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN) who have lost lower limbs. By using specialized electrodes placed on the thigh nerves, the study aims to create sensations that mimic those from the missing foot. This approach is designed to improve the health of the residual limb and enhance daily functioning by providing feedback during activities. The research will carefully monitor the participants' medical histories and the effects of the implanted devices to ensure safety and effectiveness.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced lower limb loss due to diabetic peripheral neuropathy.

Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced limb loss or do not have diabetic peripheral neuropathy may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for veterans by enhancing limb health and reducing complications.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar techniques in neural stimulation have shown promise in other contexts, suggesting potential for success.

Where this research is happening

Cleveland, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.