Journal of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Research

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Commentary - Journal of Neurology and Neurorehabilitation Research (2025) Volume 10, Issue 3

Advances in Spinal Cord Neurorehabilitation Through Neuroprosthetic and Electrical Stimulation Therapies

Anika Sharma*

Department of Neurophysiology, All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India.

*Corresponding Author:
Anika Sharma
Department of Neurophysiology
All India Institute of Medical Sciences, India
E-mail: a.sharma@aiims.edu

Received: 03-Jul-2025, Manuscript No. JNNR-25-171935; Editor assigned: 04-Jul-2025, PreQC No. JNNR-25-1719355(PQ); Reviewed: 18-Jul-2025, QC No JNNR-25-1719355; Revised: 21-Jul-2025, Manuscript No. JNNR-25-1719355(R); Published: 28-Jul-2025, DOI:10.35841/ aajnnr -10.3.263

Citation: Sharma A. Advances in spinal cord neurorehabilitation through neuroprosthetic and electrical stimulation therapies. J Neurol Neurorehab Res. 2025;10(3):263.

Introduction

Spinal cord injury (SCI) remains a profound clinical challenge due to its limited capacity for spontaneous regeneration. The disruption of descending and ascending pathways often results in partial or complete paralysis, alongside sensory deficits. Neurorehabilitation strategies aim to harness residual neural circuits and promote adaptive plasticity to restore function. Recent advances in neuroprosthetics and electrical stimulation have significantly expanded therapeutic possibilities, allowing clinicians to directly interface with spared neural substrates to evoke motor responses and enhance voluntary control [1].

Epidural and transcutaneous electrical stimulation techniques have shown promising outcomes in improving locomotor and upper-limb function. By delivering patterned electrical impulses to targeted spinal segments, these interventions can recruit dormant motor circuits and promote synaptic plasticity. Studies suggest that repeated stimulation combined with task-specific training can enhance spinal network excitability, facilitating voluntary movement even in individuals with complete motor paralysis. This combinatorial approach leverages activity-dependent plasticity to re-establish functional connections between cortical and spinal networks [2].

Neuroprosthetic devices, including brain–computer interface–controlled exoskeletons and functional electrical stimulation systems, further complement traditional rehabilitation. These devices decode neural signals and convert them into mechanical output, allowing patients to perform goal-directed movements despite impaired motor pathways. The iterative feedback provided by these systems reinforces neural activation patterns and encourages cortical reorganization. Importantly, such technology not only restores functional capabilities but also positively influences psychosocial well-being, promoting motivation and adherence to long-term rehabilitation protocols [3].

Integration of electrical stimulation and neuroprosthetics with pharmacological support offers additional potential. Agents that enhance neurotransmitter availability or modulate inhibitory circuits can potentiate the effects of stimulation, facilitating synaptic strengthening. Parallel strategies targeting neurotrophic factor expression aim to support axonal sprouting and dendritic growth, complementing externally induced neural activity. Collectively, these approaches exemplify a multi-modal strategy that merges technology, pharmacology, and structured rehabilitation to maximize recovery outcomes [4].

Despite these advances, several challenges remain, including device accessibility, patient selection, and individualized optimization of stimulation parameters. Long-term sustainability and the translation of laboratory findings into routine clinical practice require careful evaluation. Continued interdisciplinary collaboration among engineers, neurophysiologists, and rehabilitation specialists is crucial for refining these interventions and ensuring their broad applicability across diverse SCI populations [5].

Conclusion

Neuroprosthetic and electrical stimulation therapies represent a transformative frontier in spinal cord injury rehabilitation. By exploiting residual neural circuits and promoting adaptive plasticity, these interventions offer renewed hope for functional recovery. Ongoing research and clinical innovation are essential to optimize these approaches, integrating technological, pharmacological, and behavioral strategies to maximize patient outcomes and quality of life.

References

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