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  4. Editorial: Harnessing Neuroplasticity in the Injured Central Nervous System Using Spinal Neuromodulation

Editorial: Harnessing Neuroplasticity in the Injured Central Nervous System Using Spinal Neuromodulation

Frontiers in Rehabilitation Sciences, 2022 · DOI: 10.3389/fresc.2022.841014 · Published: April 27, 2022

Spinal Cord InjuryNeurologyNeurorehabilitation

Simple Explanation

The editorial discusses the ability of the central nervous system to change and adapt after injury. It highlights that improvements in motor, sensory, and autonomic functions can be achieved through neuroplastic interventions. Spinal cord neuromodulation, particularly through epidural or transcutaneous electrical spinal stimulation, is becoming increasingly important due to its effectiveness and applicability in clinical settings. Combining spinal stimulation with other neuromodulation techniques may further enhance neuroplasticity at different levels of the neuroaxis, representing a future direction in this field.

Study Duration
Not specified
Participants
Seven individuals with complete and incomplete SCI in one pilot study mentioned
Evidence Level
Editorial

Key Findings

  • 1
    Transcutaneous spinal stimulation can restore meaningful upper and lower limb function using specific stimulation parameters in a safe manner.
  • 2
    A combination of transcutaneous spinal stimulation with massed and task-specific practice can improve neuromotor function in individuals with SCI.
  • 3
    Objective measurements using force-sensitive resistors can quantify clinician assistance and participant progression during body weight-supported treadmill training with epidural spinal stimulation.

Research Summary

This editorial discusses harnessing neuroplasticity in the injured central nervous system using spinal neuromodulation. It highlights the potential of neuromodulation techniques, especially transcutaneous electrical spinal stimulation, in improving motor, sensory, and autonomic functions after spinal cord injury. The editorial reviews recent advances, including animal model studies and clinical applications of transcutaneous spinal stimulation, noting its feasibility and successful application in restoring limb function. The authors emphasize the need for better reporting of recruitment methods and intervention protocols and suggest that combining spinal stimulation with other neuromodulation approaches could further enhance neuroplasticity.

Practical Implications

Clinical Application

Spinal neuromodulation, particularly transcutaneous electrical spinal stimulation, can be used to improve motor and sensory functions in individuals with SCI.

Research Advancement

Further research is needed to better understand the neurophysiological mechanisms of spinal neuromodulation and optimize intervention protocols.

Rehabilitation Strategies

Combining spinal stimulation with task-specific practice can enhance rehabilitation outcomes for individuals with SCI.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    Current tools lacking in quantifying clinician assistance during training.
  • 2
    Neurophysiological mechanisms of spinal neuromodulation are not fully understood.
  • 3
    Need for better reporting of recruitment methods and intervention protocols in future studies.

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