Using epidural stimulation to reduce pain and improve rehabilitation in patients with spinal cord injuries.
A Double-Blind, Randomized, Controlled Trial of Epidural Conus Medullaris Stimulation to Alleviate Pain and Augment Rehabilitation in Patients with Subacute Thoracic Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
This study is looking at whether a special treatment using electrical stimulation can help people with chronic pain and improve recovery after a spinal cord injury in the upper back, and it’s designed for those who want to find new ways to feel better and get back to their daily activities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Duke University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Durham, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11013357 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of epidural electrical stimulation to alleviate chronic pain and enhance rehabilitation in patients who have suffered from subacute thoracic spinal cord injuries. The study involves a double-blind, randomized controlled trial, meaning that neither the participants nor the researchers know who is receiving the treatment or a placebo, which helps ensure unbiased results. Patients will be monitored for changes in pain levels and rehabilitation outcomes over the course of the trial. The goal is to determine if this innovative approach can provide significant relief and improve quality of life for those affected by spinal cord injuries.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with subacute, traumatic, complete thoracic spinal cord injuries.
Not a fit: Patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries or those who are not in the subacute phase of their injury may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment options that significantly reduce pain and improve rehabilitation outcomes for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with epidural electrical stimulation in similar contexts, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
Durham, United States
- Duke University — Durham, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Lad, Shivanand P — Duke University
- Study coordinator: Lad, Shivanand P
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.