My research interests are in the development and clinical evaluation of novel neuroprosthetic and neurotherapeutic devices to restore motor function in individuals with CNS paralysis. Neuroprosthetic devices substitute for lost neuromuscular function; neurotherapeutic devices facilitate recovery of lost neuromuscular function. Current Research Activities Contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation (CCFES), a novel neurotherapeutic application of surface…
My primary research interest is in the application of functional electrical stimulation (FES) to provide disabled individuals with increased independence and improved quality of life. In particular, I have focused my work on FES as applied to cervical level spinal cord injury. These individuals have paralyzed muscles in both their hands and arms. FES can…
Bladder dysfunction resulting from neurological disease or spinal cord injury can have a devastating clinical impact. Our goal is to understand the complex interactions involved in the systems-level neural organization and control of bladder and urethral function. We use this information to develop neural prostheses or rehabilitative techniques that interface with the nervous system and…
As the FES Center’s primary contact for external collaborations, my objective is to strengthen existing and forge new relationships with groups outside the center to build the FES Center’s visibility and impact. I pursue and manage relationships with other academic centers interested in working with FES Center investigators, and also with industrial partners. Strategic Collaborations…
I think it is important as the FES Center’s Medical Director to keep focus on the clinical problems at hand and those issues that are relevant to our patients and veterans. The signature injuries of our war have been traumatic brain injury and PTSD. These areas have a large patient population with needs that potentially…
Since I joined the FES Center in 1993, my primary research area has been the restoration of arm function in individuals with paralysis resulting from cervical spinal cord injury, primarily through the use of FNS. Areas of Interest Using a model of the shoulder adapted to reflect cervical spinal cord injuries to evaluate potential interventions…
Bladder dysfunction resulting from neurological disease or spinal cord injury can have a devastating clinical impact. Our goal is to understand the complex interactions involved in the systems-level neural organization and control of bladder and urethral function. We use this information to develop neural prostheses or rehabilitative techniques that interface with the nervous system and…
“The nervous system really uses electricity as its language,” says Robert Kirsch, chair of biomedical engineering at Case Western Reserve University and executive director of the Cleveland FES Center.
Researchers are investigating what causes patients to freeze while walking and how it can be avoided.
CLEVELAND — Ground-breaking, life-changing research is happening at MetroHealth Medical Center when it comes to spinal cord injuries and giving people function back.