Hope for the Future: Non-Invasive Treatments and Research for Paralysis

We are coming to the close of the year. At this time, many individuals choose to reflect and look toward the future. There are emerging technologies that may improve spinal cord function. It is not to say you should not be content with your current situation. People reading this are doing so because they are thriving even if they are hopeful for improvement. Not everyone is seeking changes. Too many ‘hypes’ about upcoming research can be disappointing. However, it is important to know what is on the horizon so you can be prepared and make thoughtful decisions.

One of the biggest leaps is electrical stimulation which improves spinal cord function for some individuals. This is the use of the placement of electrodes on the skin that transmit electrical signals to the nerves and muscles. This therapy can be used for exercise, and function. In some instances, the nerve is directly stimulated. In other situations, one muscle or muscle group is stimulated. Typically, messages are sent to and from the brain, controlling body movement and sensation. In a situation where the message is blocked from an injury to the brain or not able to pass from an injury to the spinal cord, external stimulation can provide input to nerves below the injury and allow messages to pass more easily through damaged nerves. Remember, your body still works. It is just not getting a message from the brain. Motor or movement research studies are the largest in number and are most requested by consumers.

Microscope

One of the biggest findings using surface or skin electrodes has been in the adjustment of placement of the electrodes. Whereas electrodes have been traditionally (and still are) placed directly over the target muscle and nerve, at the University of Washington, an electrode was placed directly on the back of the neck over the spine. This allows more nerves to be activated in the arm, hand, and fingers. The response is very impressive. Even more interesting is that there is some ‘hang over’ inability even after the device has been turned off. This technique has been used in individuals specifically with tetraplegia. However, it is just a matter of time before it will be tried with individuals with other neurological issues. If you are interested in this ongoing research from Dr. Moritz’s lab, the most recent publication with six participants can be found here: https://pubmed.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/33400652/

This approach is currently being evaluated by a company called Onward (https://www.onwd.com/) in a larger clinical trial that has just completed enrollment. Onward will be evaluating the findings and, if warranted, hopes to have the stimulation device available to people with spinal cord injury in 2023.

External neuromodulation using electrical stimulation is also being used for other functional activities. Stationary biking was one of the first applications. This treatment assists with the reduction of spasticity, blood clots, and the difficulty of achieving cardiovascular workouts, along with other benefits. Patterned movement such as the repetition of biking has been noted since the polio epidemic in the 1940s. At that time, individuals would go to spas that promoted repetition that was done manually for hours. The bike does not require individuals to move body parts in tandem but accomplishes the same type of repetitive movement. The frustration has been in obtaining the equipment, which, once learned, can be achieved at home. Prices are dropping, so hopefully, this will become more widely available.

Currently and rapidly developing is neuromodulation ‘sleeves,’ which are stocking for your arm or a glove for your hand that contains electrodes. A battery pack is attached. These are configured to lead to functional movement. These devices are not for exercise but to improve function. Of course, function leads to activity in your muscles and nerves. Because of technology advancements (telephone batteries and 3D printing), the costs are projected to be within a reasonable range. Stay tuned for more devices in the development pipeline.

One interesting finding in external electrical stimulation is that sensory function can be improved when motor stimulation occurs. This outcome was achieved by Christopher Reeve when he participated in functional electrical stimulation. His sensory function improved. This enabled him to be able to know if he needed a pressure release or to feel the touch of another.

The harnessing of Central Pattern Generators in the brainstem and spinal cord has been capitalized in movement therapies from the electrical stimulation noted above but also in weight-supported walking and aquatic therapy. Central Pattern Generators are networks of neurons that, when activated, produce redundant and repetitive movement, including chewing, breathing, bowel function, urination, ejaculation, and locomotion. Your body is programmed to perform these activities. The brain starts and stops them, but the central pattern generator keeps things going until the brain says stop. It is like your body is on autopilot. Many movement therapies have capitalized on the Central Pattern Generator.

Exoskeletons are also rapidly advancing. These are mechanical structures that are worn on the outside of the body, which provides support and movement. They were first developed for the automotive industry to allow an individual to have more strength in moving heavy machinery. They were then adapted to provide functional movement such as walking to individuals with paralysis. There are several of these devices on the market. They are heavy and expensive. Some require the use of a standby person for assistance and safety. These devices, which are currently bulky, are being studied to be crafted into a supportive ‘skin’ type of construction. The research in exoskeletons is advancing rapidly.

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Whole-body vibration therapy has been in use for quite a while but is really coming into more use. It has been exploding in exercise physiology for everyone, which has drawn more attention from those with paralysis. In this treatment, the individual rests their feet on a platform that vibrates, affecting the entire body. It enhances function. There is some thought that the vibration may affect the brain, disturb hidden blood clots, or affect unstable fractures and advanced osteoporosis. Check with your health care professional prior to investigating or trying this treatment.

Transcranial Electrical Stimulation (TES) has been explored for a number of years. This treatment has been used and continues to be an understudy for movement issues. In this treatment, a large magnet is placed near the outside of the head to realign or reorder the mapping of the electrical flow of the brain. There are studies that are mapping the electrical flow in the spinal cord. Although some studies have demonstrated varying improvement in individuals with Parkinson’s disease and a reduction of spasticity in individuals with cerebral palsy, many others with motor issues have so far eluded effective treatment. The principles of this treatment, to reconfigure neural function, have scientific logic. The application is yet unclear. More in this area of study will be forthcoming.

Neuroplasticity is the desire of the body to heal itself. Just as you can see your skin attempts to heal itself by closing a wound, the nervous system attempts to heal itself as well. New connections can be made by creating new sprouts or finding new pathways to make connections. This reforming is called neuroplasticity, the ability to change and reform. Your nervous system is doing it right now. It will continue to do it. Ways to create neuroprotective and neuro-regenerative stimulation to overcome neurodegeneration and secondary complications are being studied every day. Next week, an exploration of internal body research for paralysis will be explored.

Pediatric Consideration:

Children’s nervous systems continue to develop. This can be seen when children learn to talk, toilet, and walk, among many other body functions. Teen’s nervous systems are also developing as their brain function becomes more intellectually developed in thinking and judgment. Recovery of a developing nervous system is enhanced as the plasticity or ability to adapt is greater.

Pediatric habilitation and rehabilitation are rapidly progressing. It does take time to modify and find the right therapies and treatments for forming bodies. Learning about adult treatments can help you plan for the future of your child.

About the Author - Nurse Linda

Linda Schultz, Ph.D., CRRN is a leader, teacher, and provider of rehabilitation nursing for over 30 years. In fact, Nurse Linda worked closely with Christopher Reeve on his recovery and has been advocating for the Reeve Foundation ever since.

Nurse Linda

The opinions expressed in these blogs are the author's own and do not necessarily reflect the views of the Christopher & Dana Reeve Foundation.