Paralyzed Spinal Injury Patients Walk Again Thanks To Epidural Stimulation

The University of Louisville (UofL) has announced that two people who suffer from spinal cord injuries that left them unable to walk are taking steps again thanks to breakthrough research. The two research participants both had motor complete spinal cord injuries and can walk over the ground again thanks to epidural stimulation combined with daily locomotor training. UofL notes that two other participants also were able to independently stand and gained trunk stability when using the stimulation tech.

A previous study using similar techniques was able to return the ability to move their legs for three men who had been paralyzed for years. Study author Susan Harkema, PhD says that the research has demonstrated that brain-to-spine connectivity can be restored years after a spinal cord injury.

Harkema said, "...years after a spinal cord injury as these participants living with motor complete paralysis were able to walk, stand, regain trunk mobility and recover a number of motor functions without physical assistance when using the epidural stimulator and maintaining focus to take steps."

When these people joined the study, they were all at least 2.5 years post injury and were unable to stand, walk, or voluntarily move their legs. Daily locomotor training started eight to nine weeks after the implantation of an epidural stimulator. The locomotor training involved manual facilitation of stepping on a treadmill five days per week for two hours each day.

After the implant, the participants were able to step when the stimulator was on and the individual intended to walk. Two of the participants were able to achieve walking over the ground and on the treadmill with the use of a walker and horizontal poles for balance. The epidural stimulator applies a continuous electrical current at varying frequencies and intensities to specific locations on the spinal cord.

SOURCE: UofL