Understanding how electrical stimulation can help restore movement in people with spinal cord injuries
Elucidating spinal sensorimotor network components that underlie recovery of motor functions via lumbosacral epidural electrical stimulation in humans with spinal cord injury
This study is exploring how using gentle electrical stimulation on the lower back can help people with spinal cord injuries regain their ability to stand and move on their own, and it’s designed for those looking to improve their mobility through a combination of therapy and this new approach.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Mayo Clinic Rochester NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Rochester, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10897032 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of lumbosacral epidural electrical stimulation to restore motor functions in individuals with spinal cord injuries. By applying electrical stimulation to specific areas of the spinal cord, the study aims to activate neural pathways that have been disrupted due to injury. Patients will undergo a series of rehabilitation sessions combined with this stimulation to assess improvements in their ability to stand and move independently. The research employs advanced computational modeling and electrophysiological techniques to optimize stimulation parameters for maximum effectiveness.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with spinal cord injuries who experience paralysis and are seeking potential restoration of motor functions.
Not a fit: Patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries or those who do not have significant motor function loss may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new therapies that significantly improve mobility and quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar electrical stimulation techniques, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Rochester, United States
- Mayo Clinic Rochester — Rochester, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Grahn, Peter Jonas — Mayo Clinic Rochester
- Study coordinator: Grahn, Peter Jonas
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.