The researchers examined the effects of continual direct epidural electrical stimulation of a patient’s lower spine. The patient was paralyzed below the chest after a car accident. He is now able to remain standing and bear weight for up to four minutes at a time. When he is aided by a harness support and some therapist assistance, he can make repeated stepping motions on a treadmill. He also voluntarily moves his toes, ankles, knees and hips on command.
The research shows that the spinal cord’s neural network, combined with sensory input derived from the legs to the spinal cord, can direct the muscle and joint movements required to stand and step with assistance on the treadmill. The research also included extensive locomotor training while the spinal cord stimulation was being stimulated. The patient was suspended over the treadmill and assisted by rehabilitation specialists to retrain the neural networks to produce the appropriate muscle movements for taking steps.
Researchers have studied this treatment on five patients. While the patients were rated “B” on the Spinal Injury Association’s classification system, it is unclear whether “A”-level patients would also benefit from the stimulation.
Read the release on spinal cord stimulation.
Related Articles on Spinal Cord Stimulation:
Boston Scientific Receives FDA Approval for Spinal cord Stimulation Lead Splitters
Report: Promising Market for Neurostimulation Devices for Spinal Cord, Deep Brain
Medtronic Receives FDA 510(k) Clearance for Spinal Cord Stimulator Trialing Cable
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