Vagus nerve stimulation to help people walk again after spinal cord injury

Who could benefit from this research

What this research studies

This project aims to translate a nerve-stimulation approach that has shown promise in animals and stroke recovery into a treatment to improve walking after spinal cord injury. It will develop a closed-loop VNS system that triggers stimulation during specific lower-limb rehabilitation exercises. By aligning neuromodulation with physical therapy, the study seeks to enhance brain–spinal cord communication and promote gait recovery in individuals with incomplete cervical SCI. The work will progress from system development to early feasibility in the clinical setting at the University of Texas at Dallas. If successful, this could lay the groundwork for a new, patient-centered rehabilitation option.

Why it matters

Where this research is happening

• University of Texas Dallas
  Richardson, United States Active

Researchers

• Principal investigator: Rennaker, Robert L — University of Texas Dallas
• Study coordinator: Rennaker, Robert L

Related research

Other NIH-funded projects on the same topics.

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About this research

1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.