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Scheffler MS, Martin CA, Dietz V, Faraji AH, Sayenko DG. Synergistic implications of combinatorial rehabilitation approaches using spinal stimulation on therapeutic outcomes in spinal cord injury. Clin Neurophysiol 2024; 165:166-179. [PMID: 39033698 PMCID: PMC11325878 DOI: 10.1016/j.clinph.2024.06.015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Revised: 06/07/2024] [Accepted: 06/26/2024] [Indexed: 07/23/2024]
Abstract
OBJECTIVE The objective of this narrative review was to locate and assess recent articles employing a combinatorial approach of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation or epidural spinal cord stimulation with additional modalities. We sought to provide relevant knowledge of recent literature and advance understanding on outcomes reported, to better equip those working in neurorehabilitation and neuromodulation. METHODS Articles were selected and analyzed based on study approach, stimulation parameters, outcome measures, and presence of neurophysiological data to support findings. RESULTS This narrative review analyzed 44 recent articles employing a combinatorial approach of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation or epidural spinal cord stimulation with additional modalities. Our findings showed that limited research exists regarding such combinatorial approaches, particularly when considering modalities beyond activity-based training. There is also limited consistency in neurophysiological and quality of life outcomes. CONCLUSION Articles involving transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation or epidural spinal cord stimulation with other modalities are limited in the current body of literature. Authors noted variety in approach, sample size, and use of participant perspective. Opportunities are present to add high quality research to this body of literature. SIGNIFICANCE Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation and epidural spinal cord stimulation are emerging in research as viable avenues for targeting improvement of function after traumatic spinal cord injury, particularly when combined with activity-based training. This body of literature demonstrates viable areas for growth from both neurophysiological and functional perspectives. Further, exploration of novel combinatorial approaches holds potential to offer enhanced contributions to clinical and neurophysiological rehabilitation and research.
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Affiliation(s)
- Michelle S Scheffler
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Catherine A Martin
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Valerie Dietz
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Amir H Faraji
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA
| | - Dimitry G Sayenko
- Department of Neurosurgery, Houston Methodist Research Institute, 6670 Bertner Ave, Houston, TX, 77030, USA.
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Martino Cinnera A, Bonanno M, Calabrò RS, Bisirri A, D'Arienzo M, D'Acunto A, Ciancarelli I, Morone G, Koch G. Paired associative stimulation to enhance motor outcome in spinal cord injury: a systematic review of first evidence. Expert Rev Med Devices 2024:1-12. [PMID: 38768088 DOI: 10.1080/17434440.2024.2358048] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/21/2024] [Accepted: 05/17/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
INTRODUCTION Spinal cord injuries (SCI) often result in motor impairment and lifelong disability. METHODS This systematic review, conducted in agreement with PRISMA guidelines, aimed to evaluate the effects of cortico-spinal paired associative stimulation (PAS) on motor outcomes in individuals with SCI. PubMed, Scopus/EMBASE, Pedro, and Cochrane databases were consulted from inception to 2023/01/12. RESULTS In 1021 articles, 10 studies involving 84 patients meet the inclusion criteria, 7 case series/study, and 3 clinical trials. Despite light differences, the included studies performed a cortico-peripheral PAS using a single transcranial magnetic stimulation and high frequency electrical peripheral nerve stimulation for a consistent number of sessions (>20). All included studies reported improvement in motor outcomes recorded via clinical and/or neurophysiological assessment. CONCLUSION Available evidence showed an increase in motor outcomes after PAS stimulation. Indeed, both clinical and neurophysiological outcomes suggest the effectiveness of a high number of PAS sessions in chronic individuals with SCI. Due to a limited number of studies and an unsatisfactory study design, well-designed RCTs are needed to confirm the potentiality of these approaches and clarify the adequate dose-response of PAS in the SCI population. REGISTRATION ID The protocol was registered on the PROSPERO database (CRD42023485703).
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Affiliation(s)
- Alex Martino Cinnera
- Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalisation and Health Care IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | | | | | | | - Martina D'Arienzo
- Scientific Institute for Research, Hospitalisation and Health Care IRCCS Santa Lucia Foundation, Rome, Italy
| | - Alessia D'Acunto
- Department of Neurosciences, Paediatric neurology, University of Rome Tor Vergata, Rome, Italy
| | - Irene Ciancarelli
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
| | - Giovanni Morone
- Department of Life, Health and Environmental Sciences, University of L'Aquila, L'Aquila, Italy
- San Raffaele Institute of Sulmona, Sulmona, Italy
| | - Giacomo Koch
- Department of Neuroscience and Rehabilitation, University of Ferrara, Ferrara, Italy
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Wan KR, Ng ZYV, Wee SK, Fatimah M, Lui W, Phua MW, So QYR, Maszczyk TK, Premchand B, Saffari SE, Ker RXJ, Ng WH. Recovery of Volitional Motor Control and Overground Walking in Participants With Chronic Clinically Motor Complete Spinal Cord Injury: Restoration of Rehabilitative Function With Epidural Spinal Stimulation (RESTORES) Trial-A Preliminary Study. J Neurotrauma 2024; 41:1146-1162. [PMID: 38115642 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2023.0265] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/21/2023] Open
Abstract
Spinal cord injury (SCI) is damage to any part of the spinal cord resulting in paralysis, bowel and/or bladder incontinence, and loss of sensation and other bodily functions. Current treatments for chronic SCI are focused on managing symptoms and preventing further damage to the spinal cord with limited neuro-restorative interventions. Recent research and independent clinical trials of spinal cord stimulation (SCS) or intensive neuro-rehabilitation including neuro-robotics in participants with SCI have suggested potential malleability of the neuronal networks for neurological recovery. We hypothesize that epidural electrical stimulation (EES) delivered via SCS in conjunction with mental imagery practice and robotic neuro-rehabilitation can synergistically improve volitional motor function below the level of injury in participants with chronic clinically motor-complete SCI. In our pilot clinical RESTORES trial (RESToration Of Rehabilitative function with Epidural spinal Stimulation), we investigate the feasibility of this combined multi-modal approach in restoring volitional motor control and achieving independent overground locomotion in participants with chronic motor complete thoracic SCI. Secondary aims are to assess the safety of this combination therapy including the off-label SCS usage as well as improving functional outcome measures. To our knowledge, this is the first clinical trial that investigates the combined impact of this multi-modal EES and rehabilitation strategy in participants with chronic motor complete SCI. Two participants with chronic motor-complete thoracic SCI were recruited for this pilot trial. Both participants have successfully regained volitional motor control below their level of SCI injury and achieved independent overground walking within a month of post-operative stimulation and rehabilitation. There were no adverse events noted in our trial and there was an improvement in post-operative truncal stability score. Results from this pilot study demonstrates the feasibility of combining EES, mental imagery practice and robotic rehabilitation in improving volitional motor control below level of SCI injury and restoring independent overground walking for participants with chronic motor-complete SCI. Our team believes that this provides very exciting promise in a field currently devoid of disease-modifying therapies.
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Affiliation(s)
- Kai Rui Wan
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Zhi Yan Valerie Ng
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Seng Kwee Wee
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- Singapore Institute of Technology, Singapore
| | - Misbaah Fatimah
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Wenli Lui
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Min Wee Phua
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
| | - Qi Yue Rosa So
- Institute for Infocomm Research, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore
| | - Tomasz Karol Maszczyk
- Institute of High Performance Computing, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore
| | - Brian Premchand
- Institute for Infocomm Research, Agency for Science, Technology and Research, Singapore
| | - Seyed Ehsan Saffari
- Center for Quantitative Medicine, Duke-NUS Medical School, National University of Singapore, Singapore
| | - Rui Xin Justin Ker
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
| | - Wai Hoe Ng
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Tan Tock Seng Hospital, Singapore
- Department of Neurosurgery, National Neuroscience Institute, Singapore General Hospital, Singapore
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Tajali S, Balbinot G, Pakosh M, Sayenko DG, Zariffa J, Masani K. Modulations in neural pathways excitability post transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation among individuals with spinal cord injury: a systematic review. Front Neurosci 2024; 18:1372222. [PMID: 38591069 PMCID: PMC11000807 DOI: 10.3389/fnins.2024.1372222] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/17/2024] [Accepted: 03/06/2024] [Indexed: 04/10/2024] Open
Abstract
Introduction Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (TSCS), a non-invasive form of spinal cord stimulation, has been shown to improve motor function in individuals living with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the effects of different types of TSCS currents including direct current (DC-TSCS), alternating current (AC-TSCS), and spinal paired stimulation on the excitability of neural pathways have not been systematically investigated. The objective of this systematic review was to determine the effects of TSCS on the excitability of neural pathways in adults with non-progressive SCI at any level. Methods The following databases were searched from their inception until June 2022: MEDLINE ALL, Embase, Web of Science, Cochrane Library, and clinical trials. A total of 4,431 abstracts were screened, and 23 articles were included. Results Nineteen studies used TSCS at the thoracolumbar enlargement for lower limb rehabilitation (gait & balance) and four studies used cervical TSCS for upper limb rehabilitation. Sixteen studies measured spinal excitability by reporting different outcomes including Hoffmann reflex (H-reflex), flexion reflex excitability, spinal motor evoked potentials (SMEPs), cervicomedullay evoked potentials (CMEPs), and cutaneous-input-evoked muscle response. Seven studies measured corticospinal excitability using motor evoked potentials (MEPs) induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), and one study measured somatosensory evoked potentials (SSEPs) following TSCS. Our findings indicated a decrease in the amplitude of H-reflex and long latency flexion reflex following AC-TSCS, alongside an increase in the amplitudes of SMEPs and CMEPs. Moreover, the application of the TSCS-TMS paired associative technique resulted in spinal reflex inhibition, manifested by reduced amplitudes in both the H-reflex and flexion reflex arc. In terms of corticospinal excitability, findings from 5 studies demonstrated an increase in the amplitude of MEPs linked to lower limb muscles following DC-TSCS, in addition to paired associative stimulation involving repetitive TMS on the brain and DC-TSCS on the spine. There was an observed improvement in the latency of SSEPs in a single study. Notably, the overall quality of evidence, assessed by the modified Downs and Black Quality assessment, was deemed poor. Discussion This review unveils the systematic evidence supporting the potential of TSCS in reshaping both spinal and supraspinal neuronal circuitries post-SCI. Yet, it underscores the critical necessity for more rigorous, high-quality investigations.
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Affiliation(s)
- Shirin Tajali
- KITE Research Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Gustavo Balbinot
- KITE Research Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Krembil Research Institute, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Center for Advancing Neurotechnological Innovation to Application – CRANIA, University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Maureen Pakosh
- Library & Information Services, University Health Network, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute, ON, Canada
| | - Dimitry G. Sayenko
- Department of Neurosurgery, Center for Neuroregeneration, Houston Methodist Research Institute, Houston, TX, United States
| | - Jose Zariffa
- KITE Research Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Edward S. Rogers Sr. Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
| | - Kei Masani
- KITE Research Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, ON, Canada
- Institute of Biomedical Engineering, University of Toronto, Toronto, ON, Canada
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Shi C, Chen Y, Ye L, Feng J, Dong G, Lu S. Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation on motor function in patients with spinal cord injury: A meta-analysis. NeuroRehabilitation 2024; 54:563-573. [PMID: 38943403 DOI: 10.3233/nre-240057] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 07/01/2024]
Abstract
BACKGROUND It has been suggested that transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is effective in the rehabilitation of patients with spinal cord injury (SCI). However, the evidence is mainly based on case reports. OBJECTIVE To summarize the influence of transcutaneous SCS on extremity motor function of patients with SCI in a meta-analysis. METHODS A systematic literature search was performed in electronic databases including PubMed, Cochrane library, Embase, Web of Science, Wanfang, and CNKI to obtain relevant randomized controlled trials (RCTs). A random-effects model was used to pool the results by incorporating the impact of the potential heterogeneity. The most recent database search was conducted on December 31, 2023. RESULTS Six small-scale open-label or single-blind RCTs were included. Transcutaneous SCS on the basis of conventional rehabilitation could significantly improve limb strength (mean difference: 4.82, p = 0.004; I2 = 0%) and attenuate spasticity (MD: -0.40, p = 0.02; I2 = 0%). The upper-extremity motor function was not significantly affected (p = 0.75). However, transcutaneous SCS significantly improved mobility as indicated by walking speed (MD: 0.13 m/s, p = 0.009; I2 = 0%) and walking distance (standardized MD: 0.62, I2 = 0%). CONCLUSION Transcutaneous SCS is effective in improving limb strength, spasticity and mobility of patients with SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Changpiao Shi
- Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, Linping Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Yi Chen
- Key Laboratory of Acupuncture and Neurology of Zhejiang Province, Zhejiang Chinese Medical University, Hangzhou, China
| | - Liang Ye
- Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, Linping Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Jun Feng
- Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, Linping Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Guoli Dong
- Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, Linping Hospital of Integrated Traditional Chinese and Western Medicine, Hangzhou, China
| | - Shangbo Lu
- Department of Neurological Rehabilitation, Zhejiang Rehabilitation Medical Center, Hangzhou, China
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Evancho A, Tyler WJ, McGregor K. A review of combined neuromodulation and physical therapy interventions for enhanced neurorehabilitation. Front Hum Neurosci 2023; 17:1151218. [PMID: 37545593 PMCID: PMC10400781 DOI: 10.3389/fnhum.2023.1151218] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/25/2023] [Accepted: 06/30/2023] [Indexed: 08/08/2023] Open
Abstract
Rehabilitation approaches for individuals with neurologic conditions have increasingly shifted toward promoting neuroplasticity for enhanced recovery and restoration of function. This review focuses on exercise strategies and non-invasive neuromodulation techniques that target neuroplasticity, including transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), vagus nerve stimulation (VNS), and peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS). We have chosen to focus on non-invasive neuromodulation techniques due to their greater potential for integration into routine clinical practice. We explore and discuss the application of these interventional strategies in four neurological conditions that are frequently encountered in rehabilitation settings: Parkinson's Disease (PD), Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI), stroke, and Spinal Cord Injury (SCI). Additionally, we discuss the potential benefits of combining non-invasive neuromodulation with rehabilitation, which has shown promise in accelerating recovery. Our review identifies studies that demonstrate enhanced recovery through combined exercise and non-invasive neuromodulation in the selected patient populations. We primarily focus on the motor aspects of rehabilitation, but also briefly address non-motor impacts of these conditions. Additionally, we identify the gaps in current literature and barriers to implementation of combined approaches into clinical practice. We highlight areas needing further research and suggest avenues for future investigation, aiming to enhance the personalization of the unique neuroplastic responses associated with each condition. This review serves as a resource for rehabilitation professionals and researchers seeking a comprehensive understanding of neuroplastic exercise interventions and non-invasive neuromodulation techniques tailored for specific diseases and diagnoses.
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Affiliation(s)
- Alexandra Evancho
- Department of Physical Therapy, School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - William J. Tyler
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Heersink School of Medicine, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
| | - Keith McGregor
- Department of Clinical and Diagnostic Studies, School of Health Professions, University of Alabama at Birmingham, Birmingham, AL, United States
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Skiadopoulos A, Famodimu GO, Solomon SK, Agarwal P, Harel NY, Knikou M. Priming locomotor training with transspinal stimulation in people with spinal cord injury: study protocol of a randomized clinical trial. Trials 2023; 24:145. [PMID: 36841773 PMCID: PMC9960224 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-023-07193-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/01/2023] [Accepted: 02/20/2023] [Indexed: 02/27/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The seemingly simple tasks of standing and walking require continuous integration of complex spinal reflex circuits between descending motor commands and ascending sensory inputs. Spinal cord injury greatly impairs standing and walking ability, but both improve with locomotor training. However, even after multiple locomotor training sessions, abnormal muscle activity and coordination persist. Thus, locomotor training alone cannot fully optimize the neuronal plasticity required to strengthen the synapses connecting the brain, spinal cord, and local circuits and potentiate neuronal activity based on need. Transcutaneous spinal cord (transspinal) stimulation alters motoneuron excitability over multiple segments by bringing motoneurons closer to threshold, a prerequisite for effectively promoting spinal locomotor network neuromodulation and strengthening neural connectivity of the injured human spinal cord. Importantly, whether concurrent treatment with transspinal stimulation and locomotor training maximizes motor recovery after spinal cord injury is unknown. METHODS Forty-five individuals with chronic spinal cord injury are receiving 40 sessions of robotic gait training primed with 30 Hz transspinal stimulation at the Thoracic 10 vertebral level. Participants are randomized to receive 30 min of active or sham transspinal stimulation during standing or active transspinal stimulation while supine followed by 30 min of robotic gait training. Over the course of locomotor training, the body weight support, treadmill speed, and leg guidance force are adjusted as needed for each participant based on absence of knee buckling during the stance phase and toe dragging during the swing phase. At baseline and after completion of all therapeutic sessions, neurophysiological recordings registering corticospinal and spinal neural excitability changes along with clinical assessment measures of standing and walking, and autonomic function via questionnaires regarding bowel, bladder, and sexual function are taken. DISCUSSION The results of this mechanistic randomized clinical trial will demonstrate that tonic transspinal stimulation strengthens corticomotoneuronal connectivity and dynamic neuromodulation through posture-dependent corticospinal and spinal neuroplasticity. We anticipate that this mechanistic clinical trial will greatly impact clinical practice because, in real-world clinical settings, noninvasive transspinal stimulation can be more easily and widely implemented than invasive epidural stimulation. Additionally, by applying multiple interventions to accelerate motor recovery, we are employing a treatment regimen that reflects a true clinical approach. TRIAL REGISTRATION ClinicalTrials.gov NCT04807764 . Registered on March 19, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Skiadopoulos
- grid.254498.60000 0001 2198 5185Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, College of Staten Island, Staten Island, NY USA ,grid.254498.60000 0001 2198 5185Department of Physical Therapy, College of Staten Island, The City University of New York, Staten Island, NY USA
| | - Grace O. Famodimu
- Spinal Cord Damage Research Center, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY USA
| | - Shammah K. Solomon
- grid.254498.60000 0001 2198 5185Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, College of Staten Island, Staten Island, NY USA ,grid.254498.60000 0001 2198 5185Department of Physical Therapy, College of Staten Island, The City University of New York, Staten Island, NY USA
| | - Parul Agarwal
- grid.59734.3c0000 0001 0670 2351Population Health Science & Policy, Institute for Health Care Delivery Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Manhattan, NY USA
| | - Noam Y. Harel
- Spinal Cord Damage Research Center, James J. Peters Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Bronx, NY USA ,grid.59734.3c0000 0001 0670 2351Population Health Science & Policy, Institute for Health Care Delivery Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, Manhattan, NY USA
| | - Maria Knikou
- Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, College of Staten Island, Staten Island, NY, USA. .,Department of Physical Therapy, College of Staten Island, The City University of New York, Staten Island, NY, USA. .,PhD Program in Biology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, Graduate Center of The City University of New York and College of Staten Island, Manhattan & Staten Island, NY, USA.
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Skiadopoulos A, Famodimu GO, Solomon SK, Agrawal P, Harel NY, Knikou M. Priming locomotor training with transspinal stimulation in people with spinal cord injury: study protocol of a randomized clinical trial. RESEARCH SQUARE 2023:rs.3.rs-2527617. [PMID: 36824823 PMCID: PMC9949167 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-2527617/v1] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/18/2023]
Abstract
Background The seemingly simple tasks of standing and walking require continuous integration of complex spinal reflex circuits between descending motor commands and ascending sensory inputs. Spinal cord injury greatly impairs standing and walking ability, but both improve with locomotor training. However, even after multiple locomotor training sessions, abnormal muscle activity and coordination persist. Thus, locomotor training alone cannot fully optimize the neuronal plasticity required to strengthen the synapses connecting the brain, spinal cord, and local circuits and potentiate neuronal activity based on need. Transcutaneous spinal cord (transspinal) stimulation alters motoneuron excitability over multiple segments by bringing motoneurons closer to threshold, a prerequisite for effectively promoting spinal locomotor network neuromodulation and strengthening neural connectivity of the injured human spinal cord. Importantly, whether concurrent treatment with transspinal stimulation and locomotor training maximizes motor recovery after spinal cord injury is unknown. Methods Forty-five individuals with chronic spinal cord injury are receiving 40 sessions of robotic gait training primed with 30 Hz transspinal stimulation at the Thoracic 10 vertebral level. Participants are randomized to receive 30-minutes of active or sham transspinal stimulation during standing or active transspinal stimulation while supine followed by 30-minutes of robotic gait training. Over the course of locomotor training, the body weight support, treadmill speed, and leg guidance force are adjusted as needed for each participant based on absence of knee buckling during the stance phase and toe dragging during the swing phase. At baseline and after completion of all therapeutic sessions, neurophysiological recordings registering corticospinal and spinal neural excitability changes along with clinical assessment measures of standing and walking, and autonomic function via questionnaires regarding bowel, bladder and sexual function are taken. Discussion The results of this mechanistic randomized clinical trial will demonstrate that tonic transspinal stimulation strengthens corticomotoneuronal connectivity and dynamic neuromodulation through posture-dependent corticospinal and spinal neuroplasticity. We anticipate that this mechanistic clinical trial will greatly impact clinical practice because in real-world clinical settings, noninvasive transspinal stimulation can be more easily and widely implemented than invasive epidural stimulation. Additionally, by applying multiple interventions to accelerate motor recovery, we are employing a treatment regimen that reflects a true clinical approach. Trial registration ClinicalTrials.gov: NCT04807764; Registered on March 19, 2021.
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | | | - Parul Agrawal
- Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai Department of Population Health Science and Policy
| | - Noam Y Harel
- James J Peters VAMC: James J Peters VA Medical Center
| | - Maria Knikou
- College of Staten Island School of Health Sciences
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9
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Skiadopoulos A, Pulverenti TS, Knikou M. Physiological effects of cathodal electrode configuration for transspinal stimulation in humans. J Neurophysiol 2022; 128:1663-1682. [PMID: 36416443 PMCID: PMC9762966 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00342.2022] [Citation(s) in RCA: 12] [Impact Index Per Article: 6.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 08/07/2022] [Revised: 11/16/2022] [Accepted: 11/17/2022] [Indexed: 11/24/2022] Open
Abstract
Transspinal stimulation modulates neuronal excitability and promotes recovery in upper motoneuron lesions. The recruitment input-output curves of transspinal evoked potentials (TEPs) recorded from knee and ankle muscles, and their susceptibility to spinal inhibition, were recorded when the position, size, and number of the cathode electrode were arranged in four settings or protocols (Ps). The four Ps were the following: 1) one rectangular electrode placed at midline (KNIKOU-LAB4Recovery or K-LAB4Recovery; P-KLAB), 2) one square electrode placed at midline (P-2), 3) two square electrodes 1 cm apart placed at midline (P-3), and 4) one square electrode placed on each paravertebral side (P-4). P-KLAB and P-3 required less current to reach TEP threshold or maximal amplitudes. A rightward shift in TEP recruitment curves was evident for P-4, whereas the slope was increased for P-2 and P-4 compared with P-KLAB and P-3. TEP depression upon single and paired transspinal stimuli was pronounced in ankle TEPs but was less prominent in knee TEPs. TEP depression induced by single transspinal stimuli at 1.0 Hz was similar for most TEPs across protocols, but TEP depression induced by paired transspinal stimuli was different between protocols and was replaced by facilitation at 100-ms interstimulus interval for P-4. Our results suggest that P-KLAB and P-3 are preferred based on excitability threshold of motoneurons. P-KLAB produced more TEP depression, thereby maximizing the engagement of spinal neuronal pathways. We recommend P-KLAB to study neurophysiological mechanisms underlying transspinal stimulation or when used as a neuromodulation method for recovery in neurological disorders.NEW & NOTEWORTHY Transspinal stimulation with a rectangular cathode electrode (P-KLAB) requires less current to produce transspinal evoked potentials and maximizes spinal inhibition. We recommend P-KLAB for neurophysiological studies or when used as a neuromodulation method to enhance motor output and normalize muscle tone in neurological disorders.
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Affiliation(s)
- Andreas Skiadopoulos
- Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, New York, New York
| | - Timothy S Pulverenti
- Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, New York, New York
| | - Maria Knikou
- Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, New York, New York
- Department of Physical Therapy, College of Staten Island, The City University of New York, Staten Island, New York
- PhD Program in Biology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, Graduate Center of The City University of New York and College of Staten Island, Staten Island, New York
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10
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Pulverenti TS, Zaaya M, Grabowski E, Grabowski M, Knikou M. Brain and spinal cord paired stimulation coupled with locomotor training facilitates motor output in human spinal cord injury. Front Neurol 2022; 13:1000940. [PMID: 36313489 PMCID: PMC9612520 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2022.1000940] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/22/2022] [Accepted: 09/26/2022] [Indexed: 11/21/2022] Open
Abstract
Combined interventions for neuromodulation leading to neurorecovery have gained great attention by researchers to resemble clinical rehabilitation approaches. In this randomized clinical trial, we established changes in the net output of motoneurons innervating multiple leg muscles during stepping when transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) of the primary motor cortex was paired with transcutaneous spinal (transspinal) stimulation over the thoracolumbar region during locomotor training. TMS was delivered before (TMS-transspinal) or after (transspinal-TMS) transspinal stimulation during the stance phase of the less impaired leg. Ten individuals with chronic incomplete or complete SCI received at least 20 sessions of training. Each session consisted of 240 paired stimuli delivered over 10-min blocks for 1 h during robotic assisted step training on a motorized treadmill. Body weight support, leg guidance force and treadmill speed were adjusted based on each subject's ability to step without knee buckling or toe dragging. Most transspinal evoked potentials (TEPs) recorded before and after each intervention from ankle and knee muscles during assisted stepping were modulated in a phase-dependent pattern. Transspinal-TMS and locomotor training affected motor neuron output of knee and ankle muscles with ankle TEPs to be modulated in a phase-dependent manner. TMS-transspinal and locomotor training increased motor neuron output for knee but not for ankle muscles. Our results support that targeted brain and spinal cord stimulation alters responsiveness of neurons over multiple spinal segments in people with chronic SCI. Noninvasive stimulation of the brain and spinal cord along with locomotor training is a novel neuromodulation method that can become a promising modality for rehabilitation in humans after SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Timothy S. Pulverenti
- Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Morad Zaaya
- Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States
| | - Ewelina Grabowski
- PhD Program in Biology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, Graduate Center of the City University of New York and College of Staten Island, New York, NY, United States
| | - Monika Grabowski
- PhD Program in Biology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, Graduate Center of the City University of New York and College of Staten Island, New York, NY, United States
| | - Maria Knikou
- Klab4Recovery Research Program, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States,PhD Program in Biology and Collaborative Neuroscience Program, Graduate Center of the City University of New York and College of Staten Island, New York, NY, United States,Department of Physical Therapy, College of Staten Island, The City University of New York, New York, NY, United States,*Correspondence: Maria Knikou
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