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Vagus nerve stimulation shows promise for spinal cord injury recovery

Vagus nerve stimulation shows promise for spinal cord injury recovery

image via New Scientist

May 21, 2025, 4:00 PM

  • Targeted vagus nerve stimulation paired with physical therapy may help people with incomplete cervical spinal cord injuries improve hand and arm movements.
  • The treatment is already FDA-approved for treating motor impairments after stroke.

A recent study indicates that targeted vagus nerve stimulation combined with physical therapy can improve hand and arm movements in individuals with incomplete cervical spinal cord injuries. This innovative approach, already approved for treating motor impairments after stroke, shows promise in helping partially paralyzed individuals regain functionality. The treatment allows them to perform everyday tasks, such as fastening a necklace or zipping a zipper. Researchers at the University of Texas at Dallas, led by Michael Kilgard, are exploring its potential benefits.

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Michael Kilgard

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