Implant for Walking After Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
A new study underway by FES investigators is evaluating an implanted stimulator to assist with walking and standing after incomplete spinal cord injury.
FES Center researchers from the VA Northeast Ohio Healthcare System and MetroHealth System are studying the use of a fully implantable neurotechnology platform to assist with standing and walking in people with incomplete spinal cord injury.
This first-in-human trial combines public funding with an open innovation to explore new possibilities for restoring independence to those living with a disability.
The study aims to evaluate the effects of neural stimulation for improving walking after incomplete spinal cord injury. Participants will conduct pre-surgical gait training and then undergo surgery to implant a stimulator and electrodes to sense from and activate muscles used during walking. The device delivers electrical pulses to the nerves causing the muscles to contract to perform functional movements. The system coordinates assistance based on implanted sensors. After receiving the implanted device, participants undergo training to use the device to assist walking. Evaluations are completed prior to surgery as well after training and at later follow up sessions.
Detailed study information is available at https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT06965127.
For More Information
Principal Investigators: Nathan Makowski PhD
Program Contact: Lisa Lombardo MPT
Contact Number: (216) 791-3800 ext. 64909
Contact Email: lisa.lombardo2@va.gov
Contact Request
The goal of this clinical trial is to improve walking and standing function in people with incomplete spinal cord injury (SCI). Specifically, this study is testing the effectiveness of an implanted stimulator to assist walking.
If you would like more information about becoming a research volunteer please submit the information below.