Using brain stimulation to improve movement in children with cerebral palsy
Cerebellar deep brain stimulation for severe combined movement disorders and spasticity in children and young adults with cerebral palsy
This study is looking at how a special treatment called deep brain stimulation can help kids and young adults with cerebral palsy by improving their movement and reducing stiffness, and we're inviting ten participants to see if this approach makes a difference for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of California, San Francisco NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (San Francisco, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11055281 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of deep brain stimulation (DBS) targeting the cerebellum to alleviate severe movement disorders and spasticity in children and young adults with cerebral palsy (CP). The study aims to enroll ten participants who will receive bilateral DBS in the dorsal dentate nucleus of the cerebellum, which is believed to be less affected by brain damage compared to other areas. By leveraging advancements in neurophysiology and brain stimulation technology, the research seeks to improve motor function and reduce disability associated with CP. Participants will be monitored for changes in their movement and spasticity symptoms throughout the study period.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children and young adults aged 0-11 years with severe movement disorders and spasticity due to cerebral palsy.
Not a fit: Patients with mild movement disorders or those whose cerebral palsy is not accompanied by significant spasticity may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the quality of life for children and young adults with cerebral palsy by improving their movement abilities and reducing spasticity.
How similar studies have performed: Preliminary studies have shown promise in using cerebellar stimulation for improving symptoms in similar patient populations, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Where this research is happening
San Francisco, United States
- University of California, San Francisco — San Francisco, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: San Luciano, Marta — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: San Luciano, Marta
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.