Restoring touch and movement for veterans with upper limb loss
Official title: Peripheral Interfaces in Amputees for Sensorimotor Integration
Funded at Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center · NIH-11091405 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring a new way to help veterans who have lost an arm feel more connected to their prosthetic hands by using special nerve electrodes that can restore the sense of touch and make it easier to control their movements, so they can enjoy everyday activities more naturally.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Cleveland, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2020 |
| Project end | July 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX003355-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11091405 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have lost an upper extremity and are seeking advanced prosthetic solutions that provide sensory feedback.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced upper limb loss or those who are not veterans may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an implanted system of nerve electrodes to help veterans who have lost an upper extremity regain the sense of touch and control over prosthetic limbs. By using advanced technology, including Bluetooth connectivity, the system aims to provide intuitive control and sensory feedback, enhancing the user's ability to interact with their environment. The approach has been tested in several subjects, showing promising results in restoring both functional and emotional connections to their prosthetic hands. The goal is to improve the quality of life for veterans by enabling them to perform daily activities more naturally and effectively.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for veterans by restoring their ability to feel and control prosthetic limbs.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown success in sensory restoration and prosthesis control, indicating a promising avenue for this innovative approach.
Where this research is happening
-
Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center
Cleveland, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Tyler, Dustin J. — Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Tyler, Dustin J.
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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.