Using spinal cord stimulation to help improve arm movement in stroke survivors
Official title: Spinal Cord Stimulation to Improve Motor Function in People with Post-Stroke Hemiplegia
Funded at University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh · NIH-10930128 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring how using gentle electrical stimulation on the neck area of the spine can help people who have lost movement in one arm after a stroke to regain better control and function, along with some special training to support their recovery.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Pittsburgh, United States) |
| Project start | September 8, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $1,442,670 |
| NIH project number | 5UG3NS123135-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-10930128 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with chronic hemiparesis resulting from a stroke who have not seen sufficient improvement from traditional therapies.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a stroke or those with other neurological conditions unrelated to stroke may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of electrical neurostimulation applied to the cervical spinal cord to enhance motor control in individuals who have experienced chronic hemiparesis following a stroke. The approach aims to activate spinal circuits that remain intact below the brain lesion, potentially allowing patients to regain functional arm and hand movements. Participants will receive spinal cord stimulation in conjunction with tailored behavioral training to maximize long-term recovery. The study builds on preliminary findings that suggest significant improvements in strength, range of motion, and overall functional abilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for stroke survivors by restoring motor function in their arms and hands.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results with spinal cord stimulation in improving motor function in patients with spinal cord injuries, suggesting potential for success in stroke rehabilitation.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Capogrosso, Marco — University of Pittsburgh at Pittsburgh
- Study coordinator: Capogrosso, Marco
Related research
Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.
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In-bed wearable rehab robot to help stroke survivors recover movement
A wearable robotic device will be developed to help adults who recently had an acute stroke regain movement while still in the hospital.
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Spinal cord stimulation to help arm and hand movement after stroke
A new cervical spinal cord stimulation approach is tested to improve arm and hand function in people living with chronic post-stroke hemiparesis.
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Helping brain recovery for people with severe paralysis after a recent stroke
This project builds a wearable in-bed robot to give gentle movement and sensory training to adults with severe weakness right after a stroke.
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Neck-level spinal stimulation to improve arm and hand movement after stroke
This project uses mild electrical stimulation of the neck-level spinal cord to help people with long-term arm or hand weakness after a stroke.
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Improving recovery for stroke survivors with severe paralysis
This study is testing a new wearable robot designed to help stroke survivors with severe arm and leg weakness recover better while they are still in bed, by providing important training to improve their movement and brain function early on.
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Stroke prevention with hydroxyurea for children with sickle cell anemia in Nigeria
A multinational, patient-facing study tests whether hydroxyurea can safely prevent first strokes in Nigerian children with sickle cell anemia.
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.