Post-Stroke Gait Rehabilitation
Researchers are studying the use of an implant for walking mobility after stroke.
It is important to develop treatment methods that improve gait for those with persistent deficits following stroke.
Researchers at the FES Center are currently studying the use of an implanted stimulator designed to improve walking in stroke survivors.
The purpose of this study is to evaluate the effects of neural stimulation for improving walking after stroke. The study first incorporates screening to determine if an individual is a good candidate for the research.
Next is implantation, controller development, and evaluation. Selected participants will undergo surgery to implant a stimulator and electrodes to 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 external 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/NCT05740540.
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
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