Epidural Stimulation of the Lumbosacral Spinal Cord Improves Trunk Lean Distances in Individuals with Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

Biomedicines, 2025 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.3390/biomedicines13020394 · Published: February 6, 2025

Spinal Cord Injury Neurology Rehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study explores how epidural stimulation (scES) impacts trunk stability in individuals with cervical spinal cord injuries (SCI). The goal was to understand if scES, combined with specific training, could improve postural control during sitting. Researchers assessed postural control in 23 participants with cervical SCI, both without and with trunk-specific scES. They examined activities like sitting upright, leaning forward/backward, and leaning laterally. The study found that trunk-specific scES improved trunk lean distances and increased muscle activation during leaning activities. This suggests that scES can help individuals with cervical SCI improve their trunk control.

Study Duration

Not specified

Participants

23 individuals with severe cervical SCI

Evidence Level

Not specified

Key Findings

1
Trunk-specific scES led to increased trunk anterior–posterior displacement during forward/back lean activities.
2
Trunk-specific scES led to increased trunk lateral displacement during lateral lean activities.
3
EMG amplitudes for trunk muscles were higher with stimulation for all activities.

Research Summary

This study investigated the acute effects of trunk-specific spinal cord epidural stimulation (scES) on trunk control in individuals with chronic cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). The results indicated that trunk-specific scES improved trunk lean distances and muscle activation when leaning activities are performed, suggesting enhanced postural control. While improvements were noted in lean distances and muscle activation, trunk velocities did not show significant changes, and individual responses to stimulation varied.

Practical Implications

Rehabilitation Programs

Customized rehabilitation programs focusing on trunk control could further enhance the benefits of scES.

Improved Independence

Enhanced trunk control can lead to greater independence in daily living activities for individuals with SCI.

Personalized Stimulation

Further research is needed to optimize stimulation parameters for individual needs and specific trunk movements.

Study Limitations

1
Limited past research involving trunk-specific scES and trunk kinematics outcomes.
2
Participant demographics were diverse in terms of age, gender, level and severity of injury, and trunk control prior to implantation.
3
Individual improvements were observed but a group change was not observed in certain outcomes.

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