Spinal Cord Epidural Stimulation for Lower Limb Motor Function Recovery in Individuals with Motor Complete Spinal Cord Injury

Abstract

Spinal cord epidural stimulation (scES) combined with activity-based training can promote lower limb motor function recovery in chronic, motor complete spinal cord-injured individuals. Task- and individual-specific scES parameters modulate the excitability of human spinal circuitry so that sensory information and residual descending input can serve as sources of control for generating motor patterns appropriate for standing, stepping, and volitionally moving the lower limb. Task-specific activity-based training with scES is crucial for promoting neural plasticity and motor function improvement. Future studies with more individuals and advanced stimulation technology are needed to better understand the recovery potential in this population.

Keywords: Activity-based training; Epidural stimulation; Neuromodulation; Rehabilitation; Spinal cord injury; Spinal motor learning.