Using spinal cord stimulation to improve arm and hand movement in people with tetraplegia
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Functional Recovery in Humans with Tetraplegia
This study is looking at how a special electrical stimulation technique can help veterans with neck injuries improve their arm and hand movements, making everyday tasks like reaching and grabbing easier and more effective.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Hines, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-11002668 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of transcutaneous electrical spinal stimulation (TESS) to enhance arm and hand function in veterans with cervical spinal cord injuries. The study aims to understand how TESS affects the muscles and neural pathways involved in upper-limb movements, focusing on improving daily activities such as reaching and grasping. By combining TESS with targeted motor training, the research seeks to maximize recovery and improve the quality of life for participants. The approach includes advanced techniques like transcranial magnetic stimulation to assess neural transmission and engagement of specific pathways.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans with cervical spinal cord injuries who experience impaired arm and hand movements.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries at levels other than cervical or those without significant impairment in arm and hand function may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the independence and daily functioning of individuals with tetraplegia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with TESS for functional recovery, but this specific application is still in the early stages and has not yet entered clinical practice.
Where this research is happening
Hines, United States
- Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital — Hines, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Perez, Monica a — Edward Hines Jr VA Hospital
- Study coordinator: Perez, Monica a
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.