Defining the capacity of the lumbosacral network for neuromodulation in humans with SCI

Purpose

Spinal neural circuits for stepping are in different functional states in the face of heterogeneous spinal cord injuries. In this project, we activate the sensory nerve fibers entering the spinal cord to assess the neural networks controlling the stepping function.

Goal

Generating spinal inputs to the spinal cord to enhance stepping function for people with chronic spinal cord injury.

Eligibility Criteria

• Spinal cord injury due to trauma (motor vehicle accident, fall, etc.)
• Level of injury between C4 and T10
• No heart disease, uncontrolled hypertension, or pacemaker/defibrillator

Procedure

• The sensory nerves will be stimulated with surface electrodes on the back and belly to modify the spinal output for lower limb movements.
• Your participation includes up to three visits to the Methodist Rehabilitation Center, Jackson. The study duration may require 5 hours on the first visit and 2 hours on the second and third.

Compensation

$30 compensation, free parking, and lunch ticket for each visit

More information

Contact Jennifer Sivak, OTR/L
Research Occupational Therapist
Phone: (601) 364-3567
Email: jsivak@mmrcrehab.org.

Funding

Wings for Life USA – Spinal Cord Research Foundation Inc.