Regaining Independence

Duke is enrolling participants in an NIH-sponsored trial investigating the use of spinal cord stimulation to improve outcomes for individuals with traumatic thoracic spinal cord injury.

Led by Nandan Lad, MD, PhD, the study uses implanted devices that deliver targeted electrical impulses to the spinal cord, with the aim of restoring motor and sensory function, improving pain, and enhancing bowel and bladder control.

The potential impact of this study is immense. By combining spinal cord stimulation with advanced neuro-mapping and collaborative expertise across disciplines, Duke is creating a roadmap to help individuals with spinal cord injury regain independence, improve daily function, and redefine the future of what is possible.

Building on its early success, the program has expanded in scope:

• Neurology Partnership
  • The team is now using transcranial magnetic stimulation to probe the brain-spine connection, map functional circuits, and strengthen neuromuscular pathways.
• Urology Collaboration
  • In partnership with Duke Urology, researchers are exploring neuromodulation strategies to restore bowel and bladder function, a critical priority for quality of life after spinal cord injury.