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Lee FS, Cruz CJ, Allen KD, Wachs RA. Gait assessment in a female rat Sprague Dawley model of disc-associated low back pain. Connect Tissue Res 2024:1-14. [PMID: 39287332 DOI: 10.1080/03008207.2024.2395287] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/22/2024] [Revised: 08/11/2024] [Accepted: 08/18/2024] [Indexed: 09/19/2024]
Abstract
PURPOSE Gait disturbances are common in human low back pain (LBP) patients, suggesting potential applicability to rodent LBP models. This study aims to assess the influence of disc-associated LBP on gait in female Sprague Dawley rats and explore the utility of the open-source Gait Analysis Instrumentation and Technology Optimized for Rodents (GAITOR) suite as a potential alternative tool for spontaneous pain assessment in a previously established LBP model. MATERIALS AND METHODS Disc degeneration was surgically induced using a one-level disc scrape injury method, and microcomputed tomography was used to assess disc volume loss. After disc injury, axial hypersensitivity was evaluated using the grip strength assay, and an open field test was used to detect spontaneous pain-like behavior. RESULTS Results demonstrated that injured animals exhibit a significant loss in disc volume and reduced grip strength. Open field test did not detect significant differences in distance traveled between sham and injured animals. Concurrently, animals with injured discs did not display significant gait abnormalities in stance time imbalance, temporal symmetry, spatial symmetry, step width, stride length, and duty factor compared to sham. However, comparisons with reference values of normal gait reported in prior literature reveal that injured animals exhibit mild deviations in forelimb and hindlimb stance time imbalance, forelimb temporal symmetry, and hindlimb spatial symmetry at some time points. CONCLUSIONS This study concludes that the disc injury may have very mild effects on gait in female rats within 9 weeks post-injury and recommends future in depth dynamic gait analysis and longer studies beyond 9 weeks to potentially detect gait.
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Affiliation(s)
- Fei San Lee
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
| | - Carlos J Cruz
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kyle D Allen
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Rebecca A Wachs
- Department of Biological Systems Engineering, University of Nebraska-Lincoln, Lincoln, NE, USA
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Dewberry LS, Porche K, Koenig T, Allen KD, Otto KJ. High frequency alternating current neurostimulation decreases nocifensive behavior in a disc herniation model of lumbar radiculopathy. Bioelectron Med 2023; 9:15. [PMID: 37434246 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-023-00119-0] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/29/2023] [Accepted: 06/19/2023] [Indexed: 07/13/2023] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND The purpose of this study was to evaluate if kilohertz frequency alternating current (KHFAC) stimulation of peripheral nerve could serve as a treatment for lumbar radiculopathy. Prior work shows that KHFAC stimulation can treat sciatica resulting from chronic sciatic nerve constriction. Here, we evaluate if KHFAC stimulation is also beneficial in a more physiologic model of low back pain which mimics nucleus pulposus (NP) impingement of a lumbar dorsal root ganglion (DRG). METHODS To mimic a lumbar radiculopathy, autologous tail NP was harvested and placed upon the right L5 nerve root and DRG. During the same surgery, a cuff electrode was implanted around the sciatic nerve with wires routed to a headcap for delivery of KHFAC stimulation. Male Lewis rats (3 mo., n = 18) were separated into 3 groups: NP injury + KHFAC stimulation (n = 7), NP injury + sham cuff (n = 6), and sham injury + sham cuff (n = 5). Prior to surgery and for 2 weeks following surgery, animal tactile sensitivity, gait, and static weight bearing were evaluated. RESULTS KHFAC stimulation of the sciatic nerve decreased behavioral evidence of pain and disability. Without KHFAC stimulation, injured animals had heightened tactile sensitivity compared to baseline (p < 0.05), with tactile allodynia reversed during KHFAC stimulation (p < 0.01). Midfoot flexion during locomotion was decreased after injury but improved with KHFAC stimulation (p < 0.05). Animals also placed more weight on their injured limb when KHFAC stimulation was applied (p < 0.05). Electrophysiology measurements at end point showed decreased, but not blocked, compound nerve action potentials with KHFAC stimulation (p < 0.05). CONCLUSIONS KHFAC stimulation decreases hypersensitivity but does not cause additional gait compensations. This supports the idea that KHFAC stimulation applied to a peripheral nerve may be able to treat chronic pain resulting from sciatic nerve root inflammation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lauren Savannah Dewberry
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. JG56, P.O. Box 116131, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Ken Porche
- Lillian S Wells Department of Neurosurgery at the University of Florida, College of Medicine, 1505 SW Archer Road Gainesville, FL, 32608, Gainesville, USA
| | - Travis Koenig
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. JG56, P.O. Box 116131, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Kyle D Allen
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. JG56, P.O. Box 116131, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Pain Research & Intervention Center of Excellence, University of Florida, CTSI 2004 Mowry Road, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Orthopedics and Sports Medicine, College of Medicine, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kevin J Otto
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of Florida, 1275 Center Dr. JG56, P.O. Box 116131, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, 1149 Newell Dr. L1-100, P.O. Box 100244, Gainesville, FL, USA.
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, 968 Center Dr, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Chemical Engineering, University of Florida, 1030 Center Drive, P.O. Box 116005, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, 549 Gale Lemerand Dr, P.O. Box 116400, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Department of Neurology, 1149 Newell Dr, P.O. Box 100236, Gainesville, FL, L3-10032610, USA.
- Nanoscience Institute for Medical and Engineering Technology (NIMET), University of Florida, 1041 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
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Fisher LE, Lempka SF. Neurotechnology for Pain. Annu Rev Biomed Eng 2023; 25:387-412. [PMID: 37068766 DOI: 10.1146/annurev-bioeng-111022-121637] [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: 04/19/2023]
Abstract
Neurotechnologies for treating pain rely on electrical stimulation of the central or peripheral nervous system to disrupt or block pain signaling and have been commercialized to treat a variety of pain conditions. While their adoption is accelerating, neurotechnologies are still frequently viewed as a last resort, after many other treatment options have been explored. We review the pain conditions commonly treated with electrical stimulation, as well as the specific neurotechnologies used for treating those conditions. We identify barriers to adoption, including a limited understanding of mechanisms of action, inconsistent efficacy across patients, and challenges related to selectivity of stimulation and off-target side effects. We describe design improvements that have recently been implemented, as well as some cutting-edge technologies that may address the limitations of existing neurotechnologies. Addressing these challenges will accelerate adoption and change neurotechnologies from last-line to first-line treatments for people living with chronic pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Lee E Fisher
- Rehab Neural Engineering Labs, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, and Department of Bioengineering, University of Pittsburgh, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA;
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Carnegie Mellon University, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, USA
| | - Scott F Lempka
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biointerfaces Institute, and Department of Anesthesiology, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, Michigan, USA;
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Cruz CJ, Dewberry LS, Otto KJ, Allen KD. Neuromodulation as a Potential Disease-Modifying Therapy for Osteoarthritis. Curr Rheumatol Rep 2023; 25:1-11. [PMID: 36435890 PMCID: PMC11438129 DOI: 10.1007/s11926-022-01094-2] [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] [Accepted: 10/03/2022] [Indexed: 11/28/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW The following review discusses the therapeutic potential of targeting the autonomic nervous system (ANS) for osteoarthritis (OA) treatment and encourages the field to consider the candidacy of bioelectronic medicine as a novel OA treatment strategy. RECENT FINDINGS The study of OA pathogenesis has focused on changes occurring at the joint level. As such, treatments for OA have been aimed at the local joint environment, intending to resolve local inflammation and decrease pain. However, OA pathogenesis has shown to be more than joint wear and tear. Specifically, OA-related peripheral and central sensitization can prompt neuroplastic changes in the nervous system beyond the articular joint. These neuroplastic changes may alter physiologic systems, like the neuroimmune axis. In this way, OA and related comorbidities may share roots in the form of altered neuroimmune communication and autonomic dysfunction. ANS modulation may be able to modify OA pathogenesis or reduce the impact of OA comorbidities. Moreover, blocking chronic nociceptive drive from the joint may help to prevent maladaptive nervous system plasticity in OA.
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Affiliation(s)
- Carlos J Cruz
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Florida, 1275 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - L Savannah Dewberry
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Florida, 1275 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
| | - Kevin J Otto
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Florida, 1275 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA
- Department of Materials Science and Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Electrical and Computer Engineering, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA
| | - Kyle D Allen
- J. Crayton Pruitt Family Department of Biomedical Engineering, Biomedical Sciences Building, University of Florida, 1275 Center Drive, Gainesville, FL, 32611, USA.
- Pain Research and Intervention Center of Excellence, Gainesville, FL, USA.
- Department of Orthopaedics and Rehabilitation, University of Florida, Gainesville, FL, USA.
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Yang H, Datta-Chaudhuri T, George SJ, Haider B, Wong J, Hepler TD, Andersson U, Brines M, Tracey KJ, Chavan SS. High-frequency electrical stimulation attenuates neuronal release of inflammatory mediators and ameliorates neuropathic pain. Bioelectron Med 2022; 8:16. [PMID: 36195968 PMCID: PMC9533511 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-022-00098-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/01/2022] [Accepted: 08/25/2022] [Indexed: 11/26/2022] Open
Abstract
BACKGROUND Neuroinflammation is an important driver of acute and chronic pain states. Therefore, targeting molecular mediators of neuroinflammation may present an opportunity for developing novel pain therapies. In preclinical models of neuroinflammatory pain, calcitonin gene-related peptide (CGRP), substance P and high mobility group box 1 protein (HMGB1) are molecules synthesized and released by sensory neurons which activate inflammation and pain. High-frequency electrical nerve stimulation (HFES) has achieved clinical success as an analgesic modality, but the underlying mechanism is unknown. Here, we reasoned that HFES inhibits neuroinflammatory mediator release by sensory neurons to reduce pain. METHODS Utilizing in vitro and in vivo assays, we assessed the modulating effects of HFES on neuroinflammatory mediator release by activated sensory neurons. Dorsal root ganglia (DRG) neurons harvested from wildtype or transgenic mice expressing channelrhodopsin-2 (ChR2) were cultured on micro-electrode arrays, and effect of HFES on optogenetic- or capsaicin-induced neuroinflammatory mediator release was determined. Additionally, the effects of HFES on local neuroinflammatory mediator release and hyperalgesia was assessed in vivo using optogenetic paw stimulation and the neuropathic pain model of chronic constriction injury (CCI) of the sciatic nerve. RESULTS Light- or capsaicin-evoked neuroinflammatory mediator release from cultured transgenic DRG sensory neurons was significantly reduced by concurrent HFES (10 kHz). In agreement with these findings, elevated levels of neuroinflammatory mediators were detected in the affected paw following optogenetic stimulation or CCI and were significantly attenuated using HFES (20.6 kHz for 10 min) delivered once daily for 3 days. CONCLUSION These studies reveal a previously unidentified mechanism for the pain-modulating effect of HFES in the setting of acute and chronic nerve injury. The results support the mechanistic insight that HFES may reset sensory neurons into a less pro-inflammatory state via inhibiting the release of neuroinflammatory mediators resulting in reduced inflammation and pain.
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Affiliation(s)
- Huan Yang
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
| | - Timir Datta-Chaudhuri
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA.
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
| | - Sam J George
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Bilal Haider
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Jason Wong
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Tyler D Hepler
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Ulf Andersson
- Department of Women's and Children's Health, Karolinska Institute, Karolinska University Hospital, 17176, Stockholm, Sweden
| | - Michael Brines
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
| | - Kevin J Tracey
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA
| | - Sangeeta S Chavan
- Institute for Bioelectronic Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, 350 Community Drive, Manhasset, NY, 11030, USA.
- Elmezzi Graduate School of Molecular Medicine, Feinstein Institutes for Medical Research, Northwell Health, Manhasset, NY, USA.
- Donald and Barbara Zucker School of Medicine at Hofstra/Northwell, Hempstead, NY, USA.
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Green DB, Kilgore JA, Bender SA, Daniels RJ, Gunzler DD, Vrabec TL, Bhadra N. Effects of waveform shape and electrode material on KiloHertz frequency alternating current block of mammalian peripheral nerve. Bioelectron Med 2022; 8:11. [PMID: 35883133 PMCID: PMC9327420 DOI: 10.1186/s42234-022-00093-z] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/28/2022] [Accepted: 06/30/2022] [Indexed: 11/13/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVES KiloHertz frequency alternating current waveforms produce conduction block in peripheral nerves. It is not clearly known how the waveform shape affects block outcomes, and if waveform effects are frequency dependent. We determined the effects of waveform shape using two types of electrodes. MATERIALS AND METHODS Acute in-vivo experiments were performed on 12 rats. Bipolar electrodes were used to electrically block motor nerve impulses in the sciatic nerve, as measured using force output from the gastrocnemius muscle. Three blocking waveforms were delivered (sinusoidal, square and triangular) at 6 frequencies (10-60 kHz). Bare platinum electrodes were compared with carbon black coated electrodes. We determined the minimum amplitude that could completely block motor nerve conduction (block threshold), and measured properties of the onset response, which is a transient period of nerve activation at the start of block. In-vivo results were compared with computational modeling conducted using the NEURON simulation environment using a nerve membrane model modified for stimulation in the kilohertz frequency range. RESULTS For the majority of parameters, in-vivo testing and simulations showed similar results: Block thresholds increased linearly with frequency for all three waveforms. Block thresholds were significantly different between waveforms; lowest for the square waveform and highest for triangular waveform. When converted to charge per cycle, square waveforms required the maximum charge per phase, and triangular waveforms the least. Onset parameters were affected by blocking frequency but not by waveform shape. Electrode comparisons were performed only in-vivo. Electrodes with carbon black coatings gave significantly lower block thresholds and reduced onset responses across all blocking frequencies. For 10 and 20 kHz, carbon black coating significantly reduced the charge required for nerve block. CONCLUSIONS We conclude that both sinusoidal and square waveforms at frequencies of 20 kHz or higher would be optimal. Future investigation of carbon black or other high charge capacity electrodes may be useful in achieving block with lower BTs and onsets. These findings will be of importance for designing clinical nerve block systems.
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Affiliation(s)
- David B. Green
- grid.411931.f0000 0001 0035 4528Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Joseph A. Kilgore
- grid.411931.f0000 0001 0035 4528Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA ,grid.67105.350000 0001 2164 3847Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Shane A. Bender
- grid.411931.f0000 0001 0035 4528Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA ,grid.67105.350000 0001 2164 3847Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Robert J. Daniels
- grid.411931.f0000 0001 0035 4528Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA ,grid.67105.350000 0001 2164 3847Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Douglas D. Gunzler
- grid.411931.f0000 0001 0035 4528Department of Medicine, Population Health Research Institute, Center for Healthcare Research & Policy, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Tina L. Vrabec
- grid.411931.f0000 0001 0035 4528Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA ,grid.67105.350000 0001 2164 3847Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
| | - Niloy Bhadra
- grid.411931.f0000 0001 0035 4528Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, MetroHealth Medical Center, Cleveland, OH USA ,grid.67105.350000 0001 2164 3847Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, School of Medicine, Case Western Reserve University, Cleveland, OH USA
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Impact of Intraspinal Nerve Block Anesthesia on Intrapartum Fever and the Neonate. EVIDENCE-BASED COMPLEMENTARY AND ALTERNATIVE MEDICINE 2022; 2022:2600755. [PMID: 35677370 PMCID: PMC9168087 DOI: 10.1155/2022/2600755] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 04/06/2022] [Revised: 04/27/2022] [Accepted: 05/05/2022] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Objective To evaluate the impact of intraspinal nerve block anesthesia on intrapartum fever and the neonate. Methods In this prospective study, between October 2019 and December 2020, 90 eligible primiparous women enrolled in the obstetrics and gynecology department of our hospital for delivery were recruited and assigned via the random number table method at a ratio of 1 : 1 to either an analgesic group given intraspinal nerve block anesthesia for labor or a nonanalgesic group without anesthesia for labor. Outcome measures included intrapartum body temperature, cases of intrapartum fever, Apgar scores of neonates, visual analogue scale (VAS) scores, delivery mode, and indomethacin use. Results Intraspinal nerve block anesthesia was associated with a higher body temperature at 4 h and 5 h after analgesia and more cases of intrapartum fever versus no anesthesia (P < 0.05). There were no significant differences in the Apgar scores between the two groups (P > 0.05). Participants given intraspinal nerve block anesthesia had lower VAS scores during labor versus those without anesthesia (P < 0.05). The differences in the delivery mode between the two groups were not significant (P > 0.05). Intraspinal nerve block anesthesia resulted in a significantly higher demand for indomethacin versus no anesthesia (P < 0.05). Conclusion Intraspinal nerve block anesthesia is clinically effective in labor analgesia but may cause increased body temperature or even overt clinical fever, so close clinical observation of maternal temperature changes is required to mitigate the effects of anesthesia on the mothers. No adverse consequences of intraspinal nerve block anesthesia on the newborns were reported in this study.
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