Functional Electrical Stimulation

MOTOR

I have evaluated the efficacy of the Flat Interface Nerve Electrodes (FINEs) and CWRU spiral electrodes through intraoperative experiments. The electrode is placed around the nerve of an neurologically-intact volunteer in acute (very short duration) experiments. Alternatively, the cuff may be acutely or chronically evaluated in individuals with a spinal cord injury. Using a custom software suite and a mobile data acquisition system, a custom stimulus is delivered to the nerve and the muscles' responses (EMGs) are recorded. With these data, we can determine if the electrode can selectively recruit specific muscles or restore specific functions.

SENSORY

Since July 2012, I have expanded my research to include stimulating sensory fibers in the arms of amputees. We have developed a custom technique to stimulate the median, ulnar, and radial nerve of individuals who have been implanted with the FINE or spiral. Stimulus produces sensations at unique and stable locations. The sensation can be varied depending on how we stimulate the nerve and includes a range of natural sensations.

AUTONOMIC

Also, I am interested in expanding my research to include interfacing with and control of the autonomic nervous system. One project am interested in is selective stimulation of the vagus nerve in humans to control the sense of satiety in order to reduce obesity.