Using a wearable exoskeleton to stretch legs for people with spasticity
Official title: Leg Stretching Using a Controllable Wearable Exoskeleton on Demand for People with Spasticity
Funded at Syracuse VA Medical Center · NIH-11014368 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a special wearable device that helps people with muscle tightness stretch their legs when they need it, making daily activities easier and improving their comfort and movement.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Syracuse VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Syracuse, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I21RX004652-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11014368 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with spasticity due to upper motor neuron disorders, such as those resulting from spinal cord injuries.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have spasticity or those with conditions that do not affect muscle control may not receive any benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of a controllable wearable exoskeleton designed to assist individuals with spasticity by providing on-demand leg stretching. The approach aims to alleviate the negative effects of spasticity, such as muscle spasms and joint stiffness, which can hinder daily activities and overall quality of life. By utilizing this innovative technology, the study seeks to reduce the burden on caregivers and improve the functional capabilities of patients. Participants will engage with the exoskeleton to experience its benefits in a controlled environment, potentially leading to enhanced mobility and comfort.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for patients with spasticity by enhancing their mobility and reducing discomfort.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of wearable exoskeletons is a relatively novel approach, similar technologies have shown promise in improving mobility and reducing caregiver burden in other patient populations.
Where this research is happening
-
Syracuse VA Medical Center
Syracuse, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Brose, Steven W. — Syracuse VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Brose, Steven W.
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.
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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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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.
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Non‑invasive spinal stimulation to reduce spasms, pain, and improve movement after spinal cord injury
This project uses gentle electrical pulses over the skin of the spine to reduce muscle spasms, ease neuropathic pain, and help movement for people with spinal cord injury.
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Using non-invasive stimulation to reduce spasticity and improve movement after spinal cord injury
This study is looking at how gentle spinal cord stimulation can help people with spinal cord injuries feel less stiffness and regain better movement, making it a friendly option for improving recovery.
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.