Related Experiment Video
Updated: Feb 10, 2026
08:07
Paradigms of Lower Extremity Electrical Stimulation Training After Spinal Cord Injury
Published on: February 1, 2018
13.2K
Trunk Stability Enabled by Noninvasive Spinal Electrical Stimulation after Spinal Cord Injury
Mrinal Rath1,2, Albert H Vette3,4, Shyamsundar Ramasubramaniam2
11 Department of Biomedical Engineering, University of California , Los Angeles, California.
Journal of Neurotrauma
|May 23, 2018
Summary
Transcutaneous electrical spinal stimulation significantly improved trunk control and stability in individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). This noninvasive method enhances posture and balance during sitting by modulating spinal networks.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Electrical neuromodulation of spinal networks aids in regaining limb movement control post-spinal cord injury (SCI).
- The efficacy of noninvasive spinal stimulation for improving postural trunk control in seated individuals with SCI remains unexplored.
Purpose of the Study:
- To investigate the potential of transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the lumbosacral enlargement to enhance trunk posture in individuals with SCI.
- To test the hypothesis that this stimulation can improve trunk control during sitting.
Main Methods:
- Eight participants with chronic SCI (C3-T9, AIS A or C) underwent transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the lumbosacral enlargement.
- Electromyography of trunk muscles, 3D kinematics, and force plate data were collected during various sitting tasks.
- Analysis focused on trunk posture, seated stability, and responses to self-initiated perturbations.
Main Results:
- Spinal stimulation improved trunk control in all participants, leading to more natural pelvic tilt and spinal curves.
- Seated stability significantly increased, with center of pressure (COP) displacements decreasing in quiet sitting and limits of stable displacement expanding in all directions.
- Stimulation reduced the correlation between arm movement and COP displacement, indicating enhanced trunk stability during perturbations.
Conclusions:
- Transcutaneous electrical spinal stimulation effectively modulates spinal networks to improve trunk posture and stability in individuals with SCI.
- This noninvasive approach offers a promising method for enhancing seated postural control and overall stability after chronic paralysis.
Related Concept Videos
01:26Spinal Cord
2.0K
The spinal cord, a critical component of the central nervous system, extends from the base of the brainstem to the lumbar region of the vertebral column. It is essential for maintaining physical stability and facilitating communication between the brain and peripheral parts of the body.
2.0K
01:54The Spinal Cord
31.9K
The spinal cord is the body’s major nerve tract of the central nervous system, communicating afferent sensory information from the periphery to the brain and efferent motor information from the brain to the body. The human spinal cord extends from the hole at the base of the skull, or foramen magnum, to the level of the first or second lumbar vertebra.
31.9K
01:10Spinal Cord: Information Processing
3.6K
The spinal cord is an integral hub for motor and sensory information that enables the brain to communicate with the peripheral nervous system (PNS). This communication consists of relaying sensory data and transmission of motor commands.
Sensory Information Processing
Sensory information processing begins at the sensory receptors located in the skin and other tissues, which detect somatic sensory stimuli such as touch, temperature, or pain. These receptors function as catalysts, initiating...
Sensory Information Processing
Sensory information processing begins at the sensory receptors located in the skin and other tissues, which detect somatic sensory stimuli such as touch, temperature, or pain. These receptors function as catalysts, initiating...
3.6K
01:15Spinal Cord: Gross Anatomy
5.9K
The spinal cord resides within the protective confines of the vertebral column. It is the main pathway for information traveling between the brain and the body. It plays a fundamental role in nearly all bodily functions, from simple reflexes to complex motor movements. The spinal cord begins at the medulla oblongata at the base of the brainstem and extends downward, terminating at the conus medullaris near the first and second lumbar vertebrae. The spinal cord's length in adults is...
5.9K
01:16Spinal Cord: Cross-sectional Anatomy
4.9K
The cross-sectional anatomy of the spinal cord offers a detailed view of its complex structure and function within the central nervous system. At the core of the spinal cord lies the gray matter, characterized by its butterfly or "H"-shaped appearance in cross-section. This central region is enveloped by white matter, with the overall structure divided into symmetrical halves by the dorsal median sulcus and the ventral median fissure.
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...
Gray Matter and its Components
Central to the gray matter is...
4.9K
01:21Spinal Nerves: Plexus II
2.5K
The plexuses of the lower body include the lumbar, sacral, and coccygeal plexuses, which innervate the abdomen, pelvis, legs, and coccygeal region. These plexuses control the transmission of sensory information and coordinate motor functions of the lower body.
The Lumbar Plexus
The lumbar plexus is situated within the lumbar region of the back and is primarily formed by the first four lumbar spinal nerves (L1 to L4). This plexus extends its branches into several nerves, including the...
The Lumbar Plexus
The lumbar plexus is situated within the lumbar region of the back and is primarily formed by the first four lumbar spinal nerves (L1 to L4). This plexus extends its branches into several nerves, including the...
2.5K