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Thatcher KL, Nielsen KE, Sandler EB, Daliet OJ, Iddings JA, Field-Fote EC. Optimizing Transcutaneous Spinal Stimulation: Excitability of Evoked Spinal Reflexes is Dependent on Electrode Montage. RESEARCH SQUARE 2024:rs.3.rs-4719031. [PMID: 39149487 PMCID: PMC11326363 DOI: 10.21203/rs.3.rs-4719031/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: 08/17/2024]
Abstract
Background There is growing interest in use of transcutaneous spinal stimulation (TSS) for people with neurologic conditions both to augment volitional control (by facilitating motoneuron excitability), and to decrease spasticity (by activating inhibitory networks). Various electrode montages are used during TSS, with little understanding of how electrode position influences spinal circuit activation. We sought to identify the thoracolumbar electrode montage associated with the most robust activation of spinal circuits by comparing posterior root-muscle reflexes (PRM reflexes) elicited by 6 montages. Additionally, we assessed tolerability of the stimulation during PRM reflex testing. Methods Fifteen adults with intact neurological systems participated in this randomized crossover study. PRM reflexes were evoked transcutaneously using electrode montages with dorsal-ventral (DV) or dorsal-midline (DM) current flow. DV montages included: [1] cathode over T11/T12, anodes over iliac crests (DV-I), [2] cathode over T11/T12, anodes over umbilicus (DV-U), [3] dual paraspinal cathodes at T11/12, anodes over iliac crests (DV-PI), and [4] dual paraspinal cathodes at T11/12, anodes over umbilicus (DV-PU). DM montages included: [5] cathode over T11/12, anode 5cm caudal (DM-C), and [6] cathode over T11/12, anode 5cm rostral (DM-R). PRM reflex recruitment curves were obtained in the soleus muscle of both lower extremities. Results DV-U and DV-I montages elicited bilateral reflexes with lower reflex thresholds and larger recruitment curve area than other montages. There were no differences in response amplitude at 120% of RT(1.2xRT) or tolerability among montages. Conclusions Differences in spinal circuit recruitment are reflected in the response amplitude of the PRM reflexes. DV-I and DV-U montages were associated with lower reflex thresholds, indicating that motor responses can be evoked with lower stimulation intensity. DV-I and DV-U montages therefore have the potential for lower and more tolerable interventional stimulation intensities. Our findings optimize electrode placement for interventional TSS and PRM reflex assessments.
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Moritz C, Field-Fote EC, Tefertiller C, van Nes I, Trumbower R, Kalsi-Ryan S, Purcell M, Janssen TWJ, Krassioukov A, Morse LR, Zhao KD, Guest J, Marino RJ, Murray LM, Wecht JM, Rieger M, Pradarelli J, Turner A, D'Amico J, Squair JW, Courtine G. Non-invasive spinal cord electrical stimulation for arm and hand function in chronic tetraplegia: a safety and efficacy trial. Nat Med 2024; 30:1276-1283. [PMID: 38769431 PMCID: PMC11108781 DOI: 10.1038/s41591-024-02940-9] [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] [Received: 12/01/2023] [Accepted: 03/22/2024] [Indexed: 05/22/2024]
Abstract
Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) leads to permanent impairment of arm and hand functions. Here we conducted a prospective, single-arm, multicenter, open-label, non-significant risk trial that evaluated the safety and efficacy of ARCEX Therapy to improve arm and hand functions in people with chronic SCI. ARCEX Therapy involves the delivery of externally applied electrical stimulation over the cervical spinal cord during structured rehabilitation. The primary endpoints were safety and efficacy as measured by whether the majority of participants exhibited significant improvement in both strength and functional performance in response to ARCEX Therapy compared to the end of an equivalent period of rehabilitation alone. Sixty participants completed the protocol. No serious adverse events related to ARCEX Therapy were reported, and the primary effectiveness endpoint was met. Seventy-two percent of participants demonstrated improvements greater than the minimally important difference criteria for both strength and functional domains. Secondary endpoint analysis revealed significant improvements in fingertip pinch force, hand prehension and strength, upper extremity motor and sensory abilities and self-reported increases in quality of life. These results demonstrate the safety and efficacy of ARCEX Therapy to improve hand and arm functions in people living with cervical SCI. ClinicalTrials.gov identifier: NCT04697472 .
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Affiliation(s)
- Chet Moritz
- Departments of Rehabilitation Medicine, Electrical & Computer Engineering, Physiology & Biophysics and Center for Neurotechnology, University of Washington, Seattle, WA, USA
| | - Edelle C Field-Fote
- Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute and Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | | | - Ilse van Nes
- Sint Maartenskliniek, Revalidatiegeneeskunde, Nijmegen, The Netherlands
| | - Randy Trumbower
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Harvard Medical School, Boston, MA, USA
- Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital, Charlestown, MA, USA
| | - Sukhvinder Kalsi-Ryan
- KITE Research Institute|Toronto Rehab, University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Mariel Purcell
- Scottish Centre for Innovation in Spinal Cord Injury, Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit, Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, Glasgow, UK
| | - Thomas W J Janssen
- Amsterdam Rehabilitation Research Center | Reade, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
- Faculty of Behavioral and Movement Sciences, Vrije Universiteit Amsterdam, Amsterdam Movement Sciences, Amsterdam, The Netherlands
| | - Andrei Krassioukov
- ICORD and Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of British Columbia, Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada
| | - Leslie R Morse
- Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, University of Minnesota School of Medicine, Minneapolis, MN, USA
| | - Kristin D Zhao
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Rehabilitation Medicine Research Center, Mayo Clinic, Rochester, MN, USA
| | - James Guest
- Department of Neurological Surgery, Miller School of Medicine, University of Miami, Miami, FL, USA
- Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Miami, FL, USA
| | - Ralph J Marino
- Thomas Jefferson University Hospital, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Lynda M Murray
- Departments of Rehabilitation and Human Performance and Medicine, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
- Department of Research and Development, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | - Jill M Wecht
- Department of Research and Development, James J. Peters VA Medical Center, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, New York, NY, USA
| | | | | | | | - Jessica D'Amico
- ONWARD Medical, Lausanne, Switzerland
- Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital, Alberta Health Services, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
- Department of Medicine, University of Alberta, Edmonton, Alberta, Canada
| | - Jordan W Squair
- NeuroX Institute and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland
- Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland
- NeuroRestore, NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Gregoire Courtine
- NeuroX Institute and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Geneva, Switzerland.
- Department of Clinical Neuroscience, Lausanne University Hospital (CHUV) and University of Lausanne (UNIL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
- Defitech Center for Interventional Neurotherapies (NeuroRestore), EPFL/CHUV/UNIL, Lausanne, Switzerland.
- NeuroRestore, NeuroX Institute, School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology (EPFL), Lausanne, Switzerland.
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Ciardi G, Lamberti G, Avanzi M. Using "functional hand" protocol to improve hand function following a spinal cord injury: an explorative study. ACTA BIO-MEDICA : ATENEI PARMENSIS 2023; 94:e2023255. [PMID: 37850774 PMCID: PMC10644936 DOI: 10.23750/abm.v94i5.14408] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 03/06/2023] [Accepted: 09/22/2023] [Indexed: 10/19/2023]
Abstract
BACKGROUND AND AIM OF THE WORK A cervical spinal cord injury often affects hand control, causing ineffective grasping and handling functions, with a negative impact on patient's independence and quality of life. Literature recognises scientific evidence only for surgical or instrumental re-education approaches. The purpose of this study is to present the "functional hand" protocol, a physiotherapy tool that, to date, represents a good clinical practice but has no supporting literature. RESEARCH DESIGN AND METHODS a longitudinal-single cohort study was conducted at Spinal Unit- Azienda Usl Piacenza. Patients with spinal cord injury at C5-C7 neurologic level, older than 18 years, with correct comprehension of Italian language were recruited. All patients were evaluated with Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) scale to state hand functionality; positive/negative history of Functional Hand protocol was deducted by physiotherapy discharge letters on first spinal unit hospitalisation. RESULTS six patients were involved in the study; three of them had a positive history of protocol application. ARAT scores differences showed that patients who underwent functional hand protocol had a lower impairment, a better ability to produce cylindrical and cuboid sockets. CONCLUSIONS Functional hand protocol reached a preliminary evidence as effective tool to improve hand recovery in tetraplegic patients; future studies should confirm these conclusions on larger samples, and verify protocol effectiveness in addition to other treatment strategies (functional electric stimulation/ transcranial direct current stimulation/robotic assisted therapy).
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Affiliation(s)
| | | | - Martina Avanzi
- Physiotherapy degree course student- University of Parma.
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Bellitto A, De Luca A, Gamba S, Losio L, Massone A, Casadio M, Pierella C. Clinical, Kinematic and Muscle Assessment of Bilateral Coordinated Upper-Limb Movements Following Cervical Spinal Cord Injury. IEEE Trans Neural Syst Rehabil Eng 2023; 31:3607-3618. [PMID: 37639412 DOI: 10.1109/tnsre.2023.3309539] [Citation(s) in RCA: 0] [Impact Index Per Article: 0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 08/31/2023]
Abstract
Cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI) often results in bilateral impairment of the arms, leading to difficulties in performing daily activities. However, little is known about the neuromotor alterations that affect the ability of individuals with cSCI to perform coordinated movements with both arms. To address this issue, we developed and tested a functional assessment that integrates clinical, kinematic, and muscle activity measures, including the evaluation of bilateral arm movements. Twelve subjects with a C5-C7 spinal lesion and six unimpaired subjects underwent an evaluation that included three tests: the Manual Muscle Test, Range Of Motion test and Arm stabilisation test, a subsection of the "Van Lieshout arm/hand function test". During the latter, we recorded kinematic and muscle activity data from the upper-body during the execution of a set of movements that required participants to stabilize both arms against gravity at different configurations. Analytical methods, including muscle synergies, spinal maps, and Principal Component Analysis, were used to analyse the data. Clinical tests detected limitations in shoulder abduction-flexion of cSCI participants and alterations in elbows-wrists motor function. The instrumented assessment provided insight into how these limitations impacted the ability of cSCI participants to perform bilateral movements. They exhibited severe difficulty in performing movements involving over-the-shoulder motion and shoulder internal rotation due to altered patterns of activity of the scapular stabilizer muscles, latissimus dorsi, pectoralis, and triceps. Our findings shed light on the bilateral neuromotor changes that occur post-cSCI addressing not only motor deficits, but also the underlying abnormal, weak, or silent muscle activations.
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VanZile A, Driessen M, Grabowski P, Cowley H, Almonroeder T. Deficits in Dynamic Balance and Hop Performance Following ACL Reconstruction Are Not Dependent on Meniscal Injury History. Int J Sports Phys Ther 2022; 17:1298-1306. [PMID: 36518839 PMCID: PMC9718728 DOI: 10.26603/001c.55542] [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: 03/02/2022] [Accepted: 09/12/2022] [Indexed: 11/11/2023] Open
Abstract
Background Athletes often exhibit persistent deficits in dynamic balance and hop performance in their involved limb following ACL reconstruction. However, it is unclear how meniscal injury history affects inter-limb asymmetry. Purpose The purpose of this study was to compare inter-limb asymmetry in dynamic balance and hop performance in athletes with and without a history of concomitant meniscal injury. Study Design Cross-sectional study. Methods Dynamic balance and hop test data were analyzed for 34 adolescent athletes who had undergone ACL reconstruction; 19 athletes had sustained an isolated ACL tear, while 15 had sustained an ACL tear along with a meniscus injury. Athletes who had sustained a meniscus injury were sub-divided into those who underwent a meniscal repair (n = 9) versus a partial meniscectomy (n = 6). Dynamic balance was assessed using the Y-Balance Test, while hop performance was assessed using the single and triple hop tests. Data were recorded at the time of return-to-sport testing (5-11 months post-surgery). For each variable, mixed-model analysis of variance, with a between-subjects factor of group (isolated ACL tear, meniscal repair, partial meniscectomy) and a within-subjects factor of limb (involved, uninvolved), was conducted. Results The groups exhibited similar degrees of inter-limb asymmetry in dynamic balance and hop test performance, as there was not a group-by-limb interaction effect for the Y-Balance Test distances (p ≥ 0.43) or hop test distances (p ≥ 0.96). However, there was a main effect of limb for the anterior and posteromedial Y-Balance Test distances and the single and triple hop test distances (p ≤ 0.004). For each variable, performance was worse for the involved limb, compared to the uninvolved limb. Conclusion It appears that deficits in dynamic balance and hop performance among adolescent athletes who have undergone ACL reconstruction are not dependent on meniscal injury/surgery history. Level of Evidence 3.
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Affiliation(s)
| | - Malcolm Driessen
- Department of Health Professions University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
| | - Patrick Grabowski
- Department of Health Professions University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
| | - Hanni Cowley
- Department of Health Professions University of Wisconsin - La Crosse
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Seo NJ, Ramakrishnan V, Woodbury ML, Bonilha L, Finetto C, Schranz C, Scronce G, Coupland K, Blaschke J, Baker A, Howard K, Meinzer C, Velozo CA, Adams RJ. Concomitant sensory stimulation during therapy to enhance hand functional recovery post stroke. Trials 2022; 23:262. [PMID: 35382902 PMCID: PMC8981199 DOI: 10.1186/s13063-022-06241-9] [Citation(s) in RCA: 7] [Impact Index Per Article: 3.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/14/2022] [Accepted: 03/28/2022] [Indexed: 11/17/2022] Open
Abstract
Background Post-stroke hand impairment is prevalent and persistent even after a full course of rehabilitation. Hand diminishes stroke survivors’ abilities for activities of daily living and independence. One way to improve treatment efficacy is to augment therapy with peripheral sensory stimulation. Recently, a novel sensory stimulation, TheraBracelet, has been developed in which imperceptible vibration is applied during task practice through a wrist-worn device. The objective of this trial is to determine if combining TheraBracelet with hand task practice is superior to hand task practice alone. Methods A double-blind randomized controlled trial will be used. Chronic stroke survivors will undergo a standardized hand task practice therapy program (3 days/week for 6 weeks) while wearing a device on the paretic wrist. The device will deliver TheraBracelet vibration for the treatment group and no vibration for the control group. The primary outcome is hand function measured by the Wolf Motor Function Test. Other outcomes include the Box and Block Test, Action Research Arm Test, upper extremity use in daily living, biomechanical measure of the sensorimotor grip control, and EEG-based neural communication. Discussion This research will determine clinical utility of TheraBracelet to guide future translation. The TheraBracelet stimulation is delivered via a wrist-worn device, does not interfere with hand motion, and can be easily integrated into clinical practice. Enhancing hand function should substantially increase stroke survivors' independence and quality of life and reduce caregiver burden. Trial registration NCT04569123. Registered on September 29, 2020
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Affiliation(s)
- Na Jin Seo
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 151B Rutledge Ave, MSC 962, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA. .,Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC, USA. .,Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA.
| | - Viswanathan Ramakrishnan
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Cannon St, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Michelle L Woodbury
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Leonardo Bonilha
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas St, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Christian Finetto
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Christian Schranz
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Gabrielle Scronce
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Kristen Coupland
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Jenna Blaschke
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 151B Rutledge Ave, MSC 962, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Adam Baker
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Keith Howard
- Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 77 President St, MSC 700, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Caitlyn Meinzer
- Department of Public Health Sciences, Medical University of South Carolina, 135 Cannon St, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Craig A Velozo
- Department of Rehabilitation Sciences, Department of Health Science and Research, Medical University of South Carolina, 151B Rutledge Ave, MSC 962, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
| | - Robert J Adams
- Department of Neurology, Medical University of South Carolina, 96 Jonathan Lucas St, MSC 606, Charleston, SC, 29425, USA
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Iddings JA, Zarkou A, Field-Fote EC. Noninvasive neuromodulation and rehabilitation to promote functional restoration in persons with spinal cord injury. Curr Opin Neurol 2021; 34:812-818. [PMID: 34766554 PMCID: PMC8597924 DOI: 10.1097/wco.0000000000000997] [Citation(s) in RCA: 6] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/23/2022]
Abstract
PURPOSE OF REVIEW This review will focus on the use of clinically accessible neuromodulatory approaches for functional restoration in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI). RECENT FINDINGS Functional restoration is a primary rehabilitation priority for individuals with SCI. High-tech neuromodulatory modalities have been used in laboratory settings to improve hand and walking function as well as to reduce spasticity and pain in persons with SCI. However, the cost, limited accessibility, and required expertise are prohibitive for clinical applicability of these high-tech modalities. Recent literature indicates that noninvasive and clinically accessible approaches targeting supraspinal, spinal, and peripheral neural structures can modulate neural excitability. Although a limited number of studies have examined the use of these approaches for functional restoration and amelioration of secondary complications in SCI, early evidence investigating their efficacy when combined with training is encouraging. SUMMARY Larger sample studies addressing both biomarker identification and dosing are crucial next steps in the field of neurorehabilitation research before novel noninvasive stimulation approaches can be incorporated into standard clinical practice.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jennifer A Iddings
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Laboratory, Crawford Research Institute, Shepherd Center
| | - Anastasia Zarkou
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Laboratory, Crawford Research Institute, Shepherd Center
| | - Edelle C Field-Fote
- Spinal Cord Injury Research Laboratory, Crawford Research Institute, Shepherd Center
- Division of Physical Therapy, School of Medicine, Emory University
- Program in Applied Physiology, School of Biological Sciences, Georgia Institute of Technology, Atlanta, Georgia, USA
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8
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Tazoe T, Perez MA. Abnormal changes in motor cortical maps in humans with spinal cord injury. J Physiol 2021; 599:5031-5045. [PMID: 34192806 PMCID: PMC9109877 DOI: 10.1113/jp281430] [Citation(s) in RCA: 5] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.7] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/26/2021] [Accepted: 06/28/2021] [Indexed: 11/08/2022] Open
Abstract
KEY POINTS The functional role of motor cortical reorganization following spinal cord injury (SCI) remains largely unknown. Here, we tested motor maps in a hand muscle at rest and during voluntary contraction of the hand with and without voluntary contraction of a proximal arm muscle. Motor map area in participants with SCI decreased during hand voluntary contraction and further decreased during additional contraction of a proximal arm muscle compared with rest. In contrast, motor map area in controls increased during the same motor tasks. Participants with SCI with more severe sensory deficits in the hand showed larger decreases in motor map area. Ten minutes of hand muscle-tendon vibration increased the motor map area during voluntary contraction in SCI participants. These novel findings suggest that abnormal changes in motor cortical maps during voluntary contraction after SCI can be reshaped by sensory input, knowledge that can have implications for rehabilitation. ABSTRACT Motor cortical representations reorganize following cervical spinal cord injury (SCI). The functional role of this reorganization remains largely unknown. Using neuronavigated transcranial magnetic stimulation, we examined motor cortical maps during voluntary contraction in humans with chronic cervical SCI and age-matched controls. We constructed motor maps in the first dorsal interosseous (FDI) muscle at rest and during voluntary contraction of the FDI with and without voluntary contraction of the biceps brachi (BB). The role of sensory input into this reorganization was examined by muscle-tendon vibration. We found that, at rest, motor maps were larger in SCI (22.3 cm2 ) compared with control (12.6 cm2 , P < 0.001) participants. Motor map area increased during voluntary contraction of the FDI (120.7%) and further increased during contraction of the BB (143.9%) compared with rest in control subjects; however, motor map area decreased during voluntary contraction of the FDI (69.5%) and further decreased during contraction of the BB (55.5%) in individuals with SCI. SCI participants with larger decreases in map area during voluntary contraction of the FDI were those with larger sensory deficits in the hand and 10 min of hand muscle-tendon vibration increased motor map area. These results provide the first evidence of abnormal changes in motor cortical maps in humans with chronic SCI during voluntary contraction, suggesting that sensory input can help to reshape this reorganization.
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Affiliation(s)
- Toshiki Tazoe
- Arms + Hands Lab, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Northwestern
University, Chicago, IL 60611 and Hines Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL
60141, USA
- Neural Prosthesis Project, Department of Brain and
Neurosciences, Tokyo Metropolitan Institute of Medial Science, Tokyo 156-8506,
Japan
| | - Monica A. Perez
- Arms + Hands Lab, Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Northwestern
University, Chicago, IL 60611 and Hines Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Chicago, IL
60141, USA
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, Department of
Neurological Surgery, University of Miami, Miami FL 33136 and Bruce W. Carter
Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL 33125, USA
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Grampurohit N, Bell A, Duff SV, Mulcahey MJ, Thielen CC, Kaplan G, Marino RJ. Highlighting gaps in spinal cord injury research in activity-based interventions for the upper extremity: A scoping review. NeuroRehabilitation 2021; 49:23-38. [PMID: 33967071 DOI: 10.3233/nre-210042] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/15/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Upper extremity activity-based therapy for neurologic disorders employs high-intensity, high repetition functional training to exploit neuroplasticity and improve function. Research focused on high-intensity upper extremity activity-based therapy for persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) is limited. OBJECTIVE To summarize high-intensity activity-based interventions used in neurological disorders for their current or potential application to SCI. METHODS The scoping review included articles from MEDLINE, CINAHL, Cochrane CENTRAL, and OTSeeker with the criteria: non-invasive activity-based interventions delivered at least three times/week for two weeks, upper extremity functional outcomes, age 13 years or older, English language, and neurological disorders three months post onset/injury. RESULTS The search yielded 172 studies. There were seven studies with SCI, all in adults. Activity-based interventions in SCI included task-specific training and gaming, with and without electrical stimulation, and a robotic exoskeleton. The other populations found in the review included studies in stroke, cerebral palsy, and multiple sclerosis. Thirty-four different interventions were reported in other populations. In comparison to the extensive stroke research, work in SCI was not found for high-intensity interventions using virtual reality, brain stimulation, rehabilitation devices, and applications to the home and telerehab settings. CONCLUSION The results highlight critical gaps within upper extremity high-intensity activity-based research in SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Namrata Grampurohit
- Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Alison Bell
- Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Susan V Duff
- Crean College of Health and Behavioral Sciences, Chapman University, Irvine, CA, USA
| | - M J Mulcahey
- Jefferson College of Rehabilitation Sciences, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | | | - Gary Kaplan
- Scott Memorial Library, Academic Commons, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
| | - Ralph J Marino
- Sidney Kimmel Medical College, Thomas Jefferson University, Philadelphia, PA, USA
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Kalsi-Ryan S, Kapadia N, Gagnon DH, Verrier MC, Holmes J, Flett H, Farahani F, Alavinia SM, Omidvar M, Wiest MJ, Craven BC. Development of Reaching, Grasping & Manipulation indicators to advance the quality of spinal cord injury rehabilitation: SCI-High Project. J Spinal Cord Med 2021; 44:S134-S146. [PMID: 34779738 PMCID: PMC8604521 DOI: 10.1080/10790268.2021.1961052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Submit a Manuscript] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 12/19/2022] Open
Abstract
OBJECTIVE To describe the development of structure, process, and outcome indicators aimed to advance the quality of Reaching, Grasping & Manipulation (RG&M) rehabilitation for Canadians living with spinal cord injury or disease (SCI/D). METHOD Upper extremity rehabilitation experts developed a framework of indicators for evaluation of RG&M rehabilitation quality. A systematic search of the literature identified potential upper extremity indicators that influence RG&M outcomes. A Driver diagram summarized factors influencing upper extremity outcomes to inform the selection of structure and process indicators. Psychometric properties, clinical utility, and feasibility of potential upper extremity measures were considered when selecting outcome indicators. RESULTS The selected structure indicator is the number of occupational and physical therapists with specialized certification, education, training and/or work experience in upper extremity therapy related to RG&M at a given SCI/D rehabilitation center. The process indicator is the total hours of upper extremity therapies related to RG&M and the proportion of this time allocated to neurorestorative therapy for each individual with tetraplegia receiving therapy. The outcome indicators are the Graded Redefined Assessment of Strength, Sensation and Prehension (GRASSP) strength and Spinal Cord Independence Measure III (SCIM III) Self-Care subscores implemented at rehabilitation admission and discharge, and SCIM III Self-Care subscore only at 18 months post-admission. CONCLUSION The selected indicators align with current practice, will direct the timing of routine assessments, and enhance the volume and quality of RG&M therapy delivered, with the aim to ultimately increase the proportion of individuals with tetraplegia achieving improved upper extremity function by 18 months post-rehabilitation.
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Affiliation(s)
- Sukhvinder Kalsi-Ryan
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Rocket Family Upper Extremity Clinic, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
| | - Naaz Kapadia
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Rocket Family Upper Extremity Clinic, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-University Health Network, Toronto, Canada
- CRANIA, University Health Network and University of Toronto, Toronto, Canada
| | - Dany H. Gagnon
- School of Rehabilitation, Université de Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
- Centre de recherche interdisciplinaire en réadaptation du Montréal métropolitain - CIUSSS du Centre-Sud-de-l’Ile-de-Montréal, Montreal, Québec, Canada
| | - Molly C. Verrier
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Rehabilitation Sciences Institute, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Jennifer Holmes
- Southlake Regional Health Centre, Newmarket, Ontario, Canada
- Brain and Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Department of Occupational Science and Occupational Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Heather Flett
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Brain and Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Farnoosh Farahani
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - S. Mohammad Alavinia
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Maryam Omidvar
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - Matheus J. Wiest
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Ontario Neurotrauma Foundation, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
| | - B. Catharine Craven
- KITE Research Institute, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Brain and Spinal Cord Rehabilitation Program, Toronto Rehabilitation Institute – University Health Network, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
- Division of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, Department of Medicine, Temerty Faculty of Medicine, University of Toronto, Toronto, Ontario, Canada
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11
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Jo HJ, Perez MA. Corticospinal-motor neuronal plasticity promotes exercise-mediated recovery in humans with spinal cord injury. Brain 2020; 143:1368-1382. [PMID: 32355959 DOI: 10.1093/brain/awaa052] [Citation(s) in RCA: 58] [Impact Index Per Article: 14.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 02/23/2019] [Revised: 01/13/2020] [Accepted: 01/20/2020] [Indexed: 12/23/2022] Open
Abstract
Rehabilitative exercise in humans with spinal cord injury aims to engage residual neural networks to improve functional recovery. We hypothesized that exercise combined with non-invasive stimulation targeting spinal synapses further promotes functional recovery. Twenty-five individuals with chronic incomplete cervical, thoracic, and lumbar spinal cord injury were randomly assigned to 10 sessions of exercise combined with paired corticospinal-motor neuronal stimulation (PCMS) or sham-PCMS. In an additional experiment, we tested the effect of PCMS without exercise in 13 individuals with spinal cord injury with similar characteristics. During PCMS, 180 pairs of stimuli were timed to have corticospinal volleys evoked by transcranial magnetic stimulation over the primary motor cortex arrive at corticospinal-motor neuronal synapses of upper- or lower-limb muscles (depending on the injury level), 1-2 ms before antidromic potentials were elicited in motor neurons by electrical stimulation of a peripheral nerve. Participants exercised for 45 min after all protocols. We found that the time to complete subcomponents of the Graded and Redefined Assessment of Strength, Sensibility and Prehension (GRASSP) and the 10-m walk test decreased on average by 20% after all protocols. However, the amplitude of corticospinal responses elicited by transcranial magnetic stimulation and the magnitude of maximal voluntary contractions in targeted muscles increased on overage by 40-50% after PCMS combined or not with exercise but not after sham-PCMS combined with exercise. Notably, behavioural and physiological effects were preserved 6 months after the intervention in the group receiving exercise with PCMS but not in the group receiving exercise combined with sham-PCMS, suggesting that the stimulation contributed to preserve exercise gains. Our findings indicate that targeted non-invasive stimulation of spinal synapses might represent an effective strategy to facilitate exercise-mediated recovery in humans with different degrees of paralysis and levels of spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Hang Jin Jo
- University of Miami, Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, and Bruce W. Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA.,Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Northwestern University, and Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
| | - Monica A Perez
- University of Miami, Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, and Bruce W. Carter Department of Veterans Affairs Medical Center, Miami, FL, USA.,Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation at Northwestern University, and Edward Hines, Jr. VA Hospital, Chicago, IL, USA
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12
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Hou J, Nelson R, Mohammad N, Mustafa G, Plant D, Thompson FJ, Bose P. Effect of Simultaneous Combined Treadmill Training and Magnetic Stimulation on Spasticity and Gait Impairments after Cervical Spinal Cord Injury. J Neurotrauma 2020; 37:1999-2013. [DOI: 10.1089/neu.2019.6961] [Citation(s) in RCA: 11] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 02/02/2023] Open
Affiliation(s)
- Jiamei Hou
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Rachel Nelson
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Naweed Mohammad
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Golam Mustafa
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Daniel Plant
- Research Service, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Floyd J. Thompson
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Neuroscience, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
| | - Prodip Bose
- Department of Physiological Sciences, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- BRRC, North Florida/South Georgia Veterans Health System, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Anesthesiology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
- Department of Neurology, University of Florida, Gainesville, Florida, USA
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13
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Mateo S, Di Marco J, Cucherat M, Gueyffier F, Rode G. Inconclusive efficacy of intervention on upper-limb function after tetraplegia: A systematic review and meta-analysis. Ann Phys Rehabil Med 2020; 63:230-240. [DOI: 10.1016/j.rehab.2019.05.008] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.5] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/15/2019] [Revised: 04/21/2019] [Accepted: 05/06/2019] [Indexed: 01/01/2023]
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14
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Hope JM, Koter RZ, Estes SP, Field-Fote EC. Disrupted Ankle Control and Spasticity in Persons With Spinal Cord Injury: The Association Between Neurophysiologic Measures and Function. A Scoping Review. Front Neurol 2020; 11:166. [PMID: 32218765 PMCID: PMC7078326 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2020.00166] [Citation(s) in RCA: 4] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 09/25/2019] [Accepted: 02/21/2020] [Indexed: 12/03/2022] Open
Abstract
Control of muscles about the ankle joint is an important component of locomotion and balance that is negatively impacted by spinal cord injury (SCI). Volitional control of the ankle dorsiflexors (DF) is impaired by damage to pathways descending from supraspinal centers. Concurrently, spasticity arising from disrupted organization of spinal reflex circuits, further erodes control. The association between neurophysiological changes (corticospinal and spinal) with volitional ankle control (VAC) and spasticity remains unclear. The goal of this scoping review was to synthesize what is known about how changes in corticospinal transmission and spinal reflex excitability contribute to disrupted ankle control after SCI. We followed published guidelines for conducting a scoping review, appraising studies that contained a measure of corticospinal transmission and/or spinal reflex excitability paired with a measure of VAC and/or spasticity. We examined studies for evidence of a relationship between neurophysiological measures (either corticospinal tract transmission or spinal reflex excitability) with VAC and/or spasticity. Of 1,538 records identified, 17 studies were included in the review. Ten of 17 studies investigated spinal reflex excitability, while 7/17 assessed corticospinal tract transmission. Four of the 10 spinal reflex studies examined VAC, while 9/10 examined ankle spasticity. The corticospinal tract transmission studies examined only VAC. While current evidence suggests there is a relationship between neurophysiological measures and ankle function after SCI, more studies are needed. Understanding the relationship between neurophysiology and ankle function is important for advancing therapeutic outcomes after SCI. Future studies to capture an array of corticospinal, spinal, and functional measures are warranted.
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Affiliation(s)
- Jasmine M Hope
- Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Ryan Z Koter
- Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Stephen P Estes
- Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute, Atlanta, GA, United States
| | - Edelle C Field-Fote
- Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Graduate Division of Biological and Biomedical Sciences, Laney Graduate School, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Division of Physical Therapy, School of Medicine, Emory University, Atlanta, GA, United States.,Georgia Institute of Technology, School of Biological Sciences, Program in Applied Physiology, Atlanta, GA, United States
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15
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Bersch I, Koch-Borner S, Fridén J. Motor Point Topography of Fundamental Grip Actuators in Tetraplegia: Implications in Nerve Transfer Surgery. J Neurotrauma 2019; 37:441-447. [PMID: 31237477 DOI: 10.1089/neu.2019.6444] [Citation(s) in RCA: 10] [Impact Index Per Article: 2.0] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 01/30/2023] Open
Abstract
The differentiation between an upper motoneuron (UMN) lesion and lower motoneuron (LMN) lesion of forearm muscles in patients with tetraplegia is critical for the choice of treatment strategy. Specifically, the M. pronator teres (PT), M. flexor digitorum profundus III (FDPIII), and M. flexor pollicis longus (FPL) were studied since they represent key targets in nerve transfer surgery to restore grasp function. Forearm muscles of 24 patients with tetraplegia were tested bilaterally with electrical stimulation (ES) to determine whether UMN or LMN lesion was present. For detecting and testing the nerve stimulation points, a standardized mapping was developed and clinically applied. The relationship between the anatomical segmental spinal innervation and the innervation pattern tested by ES was determined. The data of 44 arms were analyzed. For PT, 19 arms showed an intact UMN, 18 arms an UMN lesion, and seven arms partial denervation. For FDPIII, three arms demonstrated an intact UMN, 26 arms an UMN lesion, 10 arms partial denervation, and five arms denervation. For FPL, two arms presented an intact UMN, 16 arms an UMN lesion, 12 arms partial denervation, and 14 arms denervation. A total of 20.1% ES tested muscles were partially denervated. In four patients, only one arm could be tested because of surgery-related limitations. According to the level of lesion and the segmental spinal innervation, most denervated muscles were present in the patient group C6 to C8. The ES, together with the developed mapping system, is reliable and can be recommended for standardized testing in surgery and rehabilitation. It offers the possibility to detect if and to what extent UMN and LMN lesions are present for the target muscles. It allows for refined pre-operative diagnostics and prognostics in spinal cord injury neurotization surgery.
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Affiliation(s)
- Ines Bersch
- Swiss Paraplegic Center, Nottwil, Switzerland.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Department of Orthopedics at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
| | | | - Jan Fridén
- Swiss Paraplegic Center, Nottwil, Switzerland.,Center for Advanced Reconstruction of Extremities (CARE), Tetraplegia Hand Surgery, Sahlgrenska University Hospital and the Sahlgrenska Academy at the University of Gothenburg, Göteborg, Sweden.,Institute of Clinical Sciences, Department of Orthopedics at the University of Gothenburg, Gothenburg, Sweden
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16
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The effects of unimanual and bimanual massed practice on upper limb function in adults with cervical spinal cord injury: a systematic review. Physiotherapy 2019; 105:200-213. [PMID: 30717883 DOI: 10.1016/j.physio.2018.10.003] [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: 10/03/2017] [Accepted: 10/12/2018] [Indexed: 11/20/2022]
Abstract
BACKGROUND Individuals with cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI) have identified improving upper limb function as their most important rehabilitation goal. Unimanual massed practice (UMP) and bimanual massed practice (BMP) may help achieve this. OBJECTIVES To evaluate and compare the effects of UMP and BMP on upper limb function in adults with cSCI. DATA SOURCES Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials, PubMed, CINAHL, Web of Science and PEDro until April 2016. STUDY SELECTION Studies investigating the effects of UMP and/or BMP on upper limb function in adults with cSCI. DATA EXTRACTION AND SYNTHESIS Data was extracted using a standardised form. Studies were appraised using a modified version of the Cochrane risk of bias tool. The findings were qualitatively synthesised. RESULTS Five randomised controlled trials and 2 case studies were included. Six studies included UMP, three included BMP, and two compared these approaches. Overall the studies reported that UMP and BMP improved upper limb function, particularly when combined with electrical stimulation, with no clear differences between UMP and BMP. These findings should be interpreted with caution however, as 6 studies presented a high or unclear risk of bias for all functional upper limb outcome measures included, and the remaining study was a small pilot study with no control group. CONCLUSION Although the findings of the included studies support the use of UMP and BMP in adults with cSCI, only 7 studies, all with significant limitations, were included; hence robust conclusions cannot be drawn and further research is warranted. PROSPERO registration number: CRD42016037365.
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17
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James ND, McMahon SB, Field-Fote EC, Bradbury EJ. Neuromodulation in the restoration of function after spinal cord injury. Lancet Neurol 2018; 17:905-917. [PMID: 30264729 DOI: 10.1016/s1474-4422(18)30287-4] [Citation(s) in RCA: 92] [Impact Index Per Article: 15.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Grants] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 12/04/2017] [Revised: 07/12/2018] [Accepted: 07/19/2018] [Indexed: 12/13/2022]
Abstract
Neuromodulation, the use of electrical interfaces to alter neuronal activity, has been successful as a treatment approach in several neurological disorders, including deep brain stimulation for Parkinson's disease and epidural spinal stimulation for chronic pain. Neuromodulation can also be beneficial for spinal cord injury, from assisting basic functions such as respiratory pacing and bladder control, through to restoring volitional movements and skilled hand function. Approaches range from electrical stimulation of peripheral muscles, either directly or via brain-controlled bypass devices, to stimulation of the spinal cord and brain. Limitations to widespread clinical application include durability of neuromodulation devices, affordability and accessibility of some approaches, and poor understanding of the underlying mechanisms. Efforts to overcome these challenges through advances in technology, together with pragmatic knowledge gained from clinical trials and basic research, could lead to personalised neuromodulatory interventions to meet the specific needs of individuals with spinal cord injury.
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Affiliation(s)
- Nicholas D James
- Regeneration Group, Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Guy's Campus, King's College London, London, UK; Center for Neuroprosthetics and Brain Mind Institute, School of Life Sciences, Swiss Federal Institute of Technology, Lausanne, Switzerland
| | - Stephen B McMahon
- Regeneration Group, Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Guy's Campus, King's College London, London, UK
| | - Edelle C Field-Fote
- Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA; Division of Physical Therapy, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA; Georgia Institute of Technology, School of Biological Sciences, Program in Applied Physiology, Atlanta, GA, USA
| | - Elizabeth J Bradbury
- Regeneration Group, Wolfson Centre for Age-Related Diseases, Institute of Psychiatry, Psychology and Neuroscience, Guy's Campus, King's College London, London, UK.
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18
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Britten L, Coats RO, Ichiyama RM, Raza W, Jamil F, Astill SL. The effect of task symmetry on bimanual reach-to-grasp movements after cervical spinal cord injury. Exp Brain Res 2018; 236:3101-3111. [PMID: 30132041 PMCID: PMC6223837 DOI: 10.1007/s00221-018-5354-8] [Citation(s) in RCA: 1] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.2] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 11/07/2017] [Accepted: 08/02/2018] [Indexed: 11/30/2022]
Abstract
Injury to the cervical spinal cord results in deficits in bimanual control, reducing functional independence and quality of life. Despite this, little research has investigated the control strategies which underpin bimanual arm/hand movements following cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI). Using kinematics and surface electromyography this study explored how task symmetry affects bimanual control, in patients with an acute cSCI (< 6 m post injury), as they performed naturalistic bimanual reach-to-grasp actions (to objects at 50% and 70% of their maximal reach distance), and how this differs compared to uninjured age-matched controls. Twelve adults with a cSCI (mean age 69.25 years), with lesions at C3–C8, categorized by the American Spinal Injury Impairment Scale (AIS) at C or D and 12 uninjured age-matched controls (AMC) (mean age 69.29 years) were recruited. Participants with a cSCI produced reach-to-grasp actions which took longer, were slower, less smooth and had longer deceleration phases than AMC (p < 0.05). Participants with a cSCI were less synchronous than AMC at peak velocity and just prior to object pick up (p < 0.05), but both groups ended the movement in a synchronous fashion. Peak muscle activity occurred just prior to object pick up for both groups. While there seems to be a greater reliance on the deceleration phase of the movement, we observed minimal disruption of the more impaired limb on the less impaired limb and no additional effects of task symmetry on bimanual control. Further research is needed to determine how to take advantage of this retained bimanual control in therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Britten
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK.
| | - R O Coats
- Faculty of Medicine and Health, School of Psychology, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - R M Ichiyama
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
| | - W Raza
- Yorkshire Regional Spinal Injuries Centre, Pinderfields General Hospital, Aberford Road, Wakefield, WF1 4DG, UK
| | - F Jamil
- Yorkshire Regional Spinal Injuries Centre, Pinderfields General Hospital, Aberford Road, Wakefield, WF1 4DG, UK
| | - S L Astill
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, LS2 9JT, UK
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19
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Chu VWT, Hornby TG, Schmit BD. Stepping responses to treadmill perturbations vary with severity of motor deficits in human SCI. J Neurophysiol 2018; 120:497-508. [PMID: 29668389 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00486.2017] [Citation(s) in RCA: 2] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
In this study, we investigated the responses to tread perturbations during human stepping on a treadmill. Our approach was to test the effects of perturbations to a single leg using a split-belt treadmill in healthy participants and in participants with varying severity of spinal cord injury (SCI). We recruited 11 people with incomplete SCI and 5 noninjured participants. As participants walked on an instrumented treadmill, the belt on one side was stopped or accelerated briefly during midstance to late stance. A majority of participants initiated an unnecessary swing when the treadmill was stopped in midstance, although the likelihood of initiating a step was decreased in participants with more severe SCI. Accelerating or decelerating one belt of the treadmill during stance altered the characteristics of swing. We observed delayed swing initiation when the belt was decelerated (i.e., the hip was in a more flexed position at time of swing) and advanced swing initiation with acceleration (i.e., hip extended at swing initiation). Furthermore, the timing and leg posture of heel strike appeared to remain constant, reflected by a sagittal plane hip angle at heel strike that remained the same regardless of the perturbation. In summary, our results supported the current understanding of the role of sensory feedback and central drive in the control of stepping in participants with incomplete SCI and noninjured participants. In particular, the observation of unnecessary swing during a stop perturbation highlights the interdependence of central and sensory drive in walking control. NEW & NOTEWORTHY Using a novel approach with a split-belt treadmill, we tested the effects of hip angle perturbations to a single leg in healthy participants and participants with varying severity of spinal cord injury (SCI). A majority of participants initiated an unnecessary swing when the treadmill was stopped in midstance, although the likelihood of initiating a step decreased with the severity of SCI. Our results demonstrated interdependence of central and sensory drive in walking control.
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Affiliation(s)
- Virginia W T Chu
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - T George Hornby
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois.,Department of Physical Therapy, University of Illinois at Chicago , Chicago, Illinois
| | - Brian D Schmit
- Sensory Motor Performance Program, Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago , Chicago, Illinois.,Department of Biomedical Engineering, Marquette University , Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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20
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Britten L, Coats R, Ichiyama R, Raza W, Jamil F, Astill S. Bimanual reach to grasp movements after cervical spinal cord injury. PLoS One 2017; 12:e0175457. [PMID: 28384247 PMCID: PMC5383293 DOI: 10.1371/journal.pone.0175457] [Citation(s) in RCA: 3] [Impact Index Per Article: 0.4] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [MESH Headings] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/25/2016] [Accepted: 03/27/2017] [Indexed: 11/19/2022] Open
Abstract
Injury to the cervical spinal cord results in bilateral deficits in arm/hand function reducing functional independence and quality of life. To date little research has been undertaken to investigate control strategies of arm/hand movements following cervical spinal cord injury (cSCI). This study aimed to investigate unimanual and bimanual coordination in patients with acute cSCI using 3D kinematic analysis as they performed naturalistic reach to grasp actions with one hand, or with both hands together (symmetrical task), and compare this to the movement patterns of uninjured younger and older adults. Eighteen adults with a cSCI (mean 61.61 years) with lesions at C4-C8, with an American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) grade B to D and 16 uninjured younger adults (mean 23.68 years) and sixteen uninjured older adults (mean 70.92 years) were recruited. Participants with a cSCI produced reach-to-grasp actions which took longer, were slower, and had longer deceleration phases than uninjured participants. These differences were exacerbated during bimanual reach-to-grasp tasks. Maximal grasp aperture was no different between groups, but reached earlier by people with cSCI. Participants with a cSCI were less synchronous than younger and older adults but all groups used the deceleration phase for error correction to end the movement in a synchronous fashion. Overall, this study suggests that after cSCI a level of bimanual coordination is retained. While there seems to be a greater reliance on feedback to produce both the reach to grasp, we observed minimal disruption of the more impaired limb on the less impaired limb. This suggests that bimanual movements should be integrated into therapy.
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Affiliation(s)
- Laura Britten
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
- * E-mail:
| | - Rachel Coats
- School of Psychology, Faculty of Medicine and Health, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Ronaldo Ichiyama
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
| | - Wajid Raza
- Yorkshire Regional Spinal Injuries Centre, Pinderfields General Hospital, Wakefield, United Kingdom
| | - Firas Jamil
- Yorkshire Regional Spinal Injuries Centre, Pinderfields General Hospital, Wakefield, United Kingdom
| | - Sarah Astill
- School of Biomedical Sciences, Faculty of Biological Sciences, University of Leeds, Leeds, United Kingdom
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21
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Gomes-Osman J, Tibbett JA, Poe BP, Field-Fote EC. Priming for Improved Hand Strength in Persons with Chronic Tetraplegia: A Comparison of Priming-Augmented Functional Task Practice, Priming Alone, and Conventional Exercise Training. Front Neurol 2017; 7:242. [PMID: 28144229 PMCID: PMC5239780 DOI: 10.3389/fneur.2016.00242] [Citation(s) in RCA: 9] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.3] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Download PDF] [Figures] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 10/02/2016] [Accepted: 12/21/2016] [Indexed: 01/24/2023] Open
Abstract
Many everyday tasks cannot be accomplished without adequate grip strength, and corticomotor drive to the spinal motoneurons is a key determinant of grip strength. In persons with tetraplegia, damage to spinal pathways limits transmission of signals from motor cortex to spinal motoneurons. Corticomotor priming, which increases descending drive, should increase corticospinal transmission through the remaining spinal pathways resulting in increased grip strength. Since the motor and somatosensory cortices share reciprocal connections, corticomotor priming may also have potential to influence somatosensory function. The purpose of this study was to assess changes in grip (precision, power) force and tactile sensation associated with two different corticomotor priming approaches and a conventional training approach and to determine whether baseline values can predict responsiveness to training. Participants with chronic (≥1 year) tetraplegia (n = 49) were randomized to one of two corticomotor priming approaches: functional task practice plus peripheral nerve somatosensory stimulation (FTP + PNSS) or PNSS alone, or to conventional exercise training (CET). To assess whether baseline corticospinal excitability (CSE) is predictive of responsiveness to training, in a subset of participants, we assessed pre-intervention CSE of the thenar muscles. Participants were trained 2 h daily, 5 days/week for 4 weeks. Thirty-seven participants completed the study. Following intervention, significant improvements in precision grip force were observed in both the stronger and weaker hand in the FTP + PNSS group (effect size: 0.51, p = 0.04 and 0.54, p = 0.03, respectively), and significant improvements in weak hand precision grip force were associated with both PNSS and CET (effect size: 0.54, p = 0.03 and 0.75, p = 0.02, respectively). No significant changes were observed in power grip force or somatosensory scores in any group. Across all groups, responsiveness to training as measured by change in weak hand power grip force was correlated with baseline force. Change in precision grip strength was correlated with measures of baseline CSE. These findings indicate that corticomotor priming with FTP + PNSS had the greatest influence on precision grip strength in both the stronger and weaker hand; however, both PNSS and CET were associated with improved precision grip strength in the weaker hand. Responsiveness to training may be associated with baseline CSE.
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Affiliation(s)
- Joyce Gomes-Osman
- Department of Physical Therapy, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine , Coral Gables, FL , USA
| | - Jacqueline A Tibbett
- The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami Miller School of Medicine , Miami, FL , USA
| | - Brandon P Poe
- Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute , Atlanta, GA , USA
| | - Edelle C Field-Fote
- Shepherd Center, Crawford Research Institute, Atlanta, GA, USA; Division of Physical Therapy, Emory University School of Medicine, Atlanta, GA, USA
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22
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Harvey LA, Glinsky JV, Bowden JL. The effectiveness of 22 commonly administered physiotherapy interventions for people with spinal cord injury: a systematic review. Spinal Cord 2016; 54:914-923. [DOI: 10.1038/sc.2016.95] [Citation(s) in RCA: 38] [Impact Index Per Article: 4.8] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 01/13/2016] [Revised: 03/24/2016] [Accepted: 05/02/2016] [Indexed: 01/05/2023]
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23
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Calabro FJ, Perez MA. Bilateral reach-to-grasp movement asymmetries after human spinal cord injury. J Neurophysiol 2015; 115:157-67. [PMID: 26467518 DOI: 10.1152/jn.00692.2015] [Citation(s) in RCA: 17] [Impact Index Per Article: 1.9] [Reference Citation Analysis] [Abstract] [Key Words] [Track Full Text] [Journal Information] [Subscribe] [Scholar Register] [Received: 07/13/2015] [Accepted: 10/07/2015] [Indexed: 11/22/2022] Open
Abstract
Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) in humans typically damages both sides of the spinal cord, resulting in asymmetric functional impairments in the arms. Despite this well-accepted notion and the growing emphasis on the use of bimanual training strategies, how movement of one arm affects the motion of the contralateral arm after SCI remains unknown. Using kinematics and multichannel electromyographic (EMG) recordings we studied unilateral and bilateral reach-to-grasp movements to a small and a large cylinder in individuals with asymmetric arm impairments due to cervical SCI and age-matched control subjects. We found that the stronger arm of SCI subjects showed movement durations longer than control subjects during bilateral compared with unilateral trials. Specifically, movement duration was prolonged when opening and closing the hand when reaching for a large and a small object, respectively, accompanied by deficient activation of finger flexor and extensor muscles. In subjects with SCI interlimb coordination was reduced compared with control subjects, and individuals with lesser coordination between hands were those who showed prolonged times to open the hand. Although the weaker arm showed movement durations during bilateral compared with unilateral trials that were proportional to controls, the stronger arm was excessively delayed during bilateral reaching. Altogether, our findings demonstrate that during bilateral reach-to-grasp movements the more impaired arm has detrimental effects on hand opening and closing of the less impaired arm and that they are related, at least in part, to deficient control of EMG activity of hand muscles. We suggest that hand opening might provide a time to drive bimanual coordination adjustments after human SCI.
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Affiliation(s)
- Finnegan J Calabro
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Systems Neuroscience Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and
| | - Monica A Perez
- Department of Physical Medicine and Rehabilitation, University of Pittsburgh, Center for the Neural Basis of Cognition, Systems Neuroscience Institute, Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania; and Department of Neurological Surgery, The Miami Project to Cure Paralysis, University of Miami, Miami, Florida
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24
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Abstract
In recent years, several investigators have successfully regenerated axons in animal spinal cords without locomotor recovery. One explanation is that the animals were not trained to use the regenerated connections. Intensive locomotor training improves walking recovery after spinal cord injury (SCI) in people, and >90% of people with incomplete SCI recover walking with training. Although the optimal timing, duration, intensity, and type of locomotor training are still controversial, many investigators have reported beneficial effects of training on locomotor function. The mechanisms by which training improves recovery are not clear, but an attractive theory is available. In 1949, Donald Hebb proposed a famous rule that has been paraphrased as “neurons that fire together, wire together.” This rule provided a theoretical basis for a widely accepted theory that homosynaptic and heterosynaptic activity facilitate synaptic formation and consolidation. In addition, the lumbar spinal cord has a locomotor center, called the central pattern generator (CPG), which can be activated nonspecifically with electrical stimulation or neurotransmitters to produce walking. The CPG is an obvious target to reconnect after SCI. Stimulating motor cortex, spinal cord, or peripheral nerves can modulate lumbar spinal cord excitability. Motor cortex stimulation causes long-term changes in spinal reflexes and synapses, increases sprouting of the corticospinal tract, and restores skilled forelimb function in rats. Long used to treat chronic pain, motor cortex stimuli modify lumbar spinal network excitability and improve lower extremity motor scores in humans. Similarly, epidural spinal cord stimulation has long been used to treat pain and spasticity. Subthreshold epidural stimulation reduces the threshold for locomotor activity. In 2011, Harkema et al. reported lumbosacral epidural stimulation restores motor control in chronic motor complete patients. Peripheral nerve or functional electrical stimulation (FES) has long been used to activate sacral nerves to treat bladder and pelvic dysfunction and to augment motor function. In theory, FES should facilitate synaptic formation and motor recovery after regenerative therapies. Upcoming clinical trials provide unique opportunities to test the theory.
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Affiliation(s)
- Wise Young
- W. M. Keck Center for Collaborative Neuroscience, Rutgers, State University of New Jersey, Piscataway, NJ, USA
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