Restoration of Somatosensory Function by Pairing Vagus Nerve Stimulation with Tactile Rehabilitation.

ABSTRACT:

Objective

Sensory dysfunction is a common consequence of many forms of neurological injury, including stroke and nerve damage. Rehabilitative paradigms that incorporate sensory retraining can provide modest benefits, but the majority of patients are left with lasting sensory loss. We have developed a novel strategy that uses closed-loop vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) paired with tactile rehabilitation to enhance synaptic plasticity and facilitate recovery of sensory function.

Methods

A clinical case report provides initial evidence that a similar implementation of closed-loop VNS paired with a tactile rehabilitation regimen could improve recovery of somatosensory function. Here, we sought to build on these promising initial clinical data and rigorously evaluate the ability of

SUBMITTER: Darrow MJ 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC9624178 | biostudies-literature | 2020 Feb

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature