A combined approach to CNS excitation for hand rehabilitations: A case study using spinal stimulation and BCI

McGeady, C., Vučković, A. and Alam, M. (2021) A combined approach to CNS excitation for hand rehabilitations: A case study using spinal stimulation and BCI. RehabWeek 2021, 23 - 25 September 2021.

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Abstract

Transcutaneous electrical spinal cord stimulation and brain-computer interface motor priming have both been used as a means of enhancing motor recovery in neurologically impaired populations. This study aimed to explore the potential benefits of combining both approaches in a single therapy, in effect promoting plasticity at two levels of the central nervous system: the brain and spinal cord. This single-patient study followed a C4 incomplete spinal-cord injured individual over a three-month period as he received intensive upper-limb training whilst receiving cervical spinal cord stimulation, and, for 4 weeks, BCI-motor priming preceding training. This study found improvements in strength and prehension which exceeded thresholds of minimal detectable differences. Although functional improvements were similar both with and without BCI motor priming, sub-scores including muscle strength were more marked when priming preceded training, possibly suggesting an added benefit over stimulation and training alone.

Item Type:Conference or Workshop Item
Status:Published
Refereed:Yes
Glasgow Author(s) Enlighten ID:McGeady, Ciaran and Vuckovic, Dr Aleksandra
Authors: McGeady, C., Vučković, A., and Alam, M.
College/School:College of Science and Engineering > School of Engineering > Biomedical Engineering
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