Limb Loss
Veterans with limb loss often face functional deficits and struggle to perceive prosthetic devices as natural parts of their bodies, leading to prosthetic abandonment or activity avoidance. To address this, VA investigators are developing technology to interface prostheses with peripheral nerves in the residual limb. This approach aims to restore the lost neural connection, allowing electrical currents to stimulate nerves and transmit signals to the brain. The brain interprets these signals as natural limb sensations, potentially improving prosthetic integration and enhancing overall functionality and quality of life for Veterans.
Open studies:
Plantar Foot Sensation
Researchers at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University are advancing prosthetic technology by studying how plantar foot sensation affects balance, mobility, and limb health. Individuals with and without lower limb loss and with and without diabetes are welcome to participate in various research activities that can range from walking tasks in a virtual reality environment to seated experiments that monitor blood flow to the lower limb. Participants will be compensated for their time.
Study Requirements:
- Participants must be 18 or older
Contact info@aptcenter.org if you are interested in getting involved!
Neural Sensation Restoration in Lower Limb Loss
Researchers at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University are working to restore neural connection in individuals with lower limb loss. This study aims to restore sensation and movement from the missing foot and provide intuitive control of prostheses using implanted neural interfaces and advanced prosthetics. Additionally, the research examines how nerve stimulation impacts the health of the residual limb, which is crucial for individuals with diabetes or neuropathy. Participants must be 18 or older with an acquired lower limb amputation, with or without diabetes. Compensation will be provided for their time.
Study Requirements:
- Must be 18 or older
- Must have an acquired lower limb amputation, with or without diabetes
Contact info@aptcenter.org if you are interested in getting involved!
Restoring Hand Function in Upper Limb Amputees
Researchers at the Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center and Case Western Reserve University are working to restore sensation in upper limb amputees. This study is looking at the possible benefits of restoring the emotional and functional aspects of the hand to an individual using a fully implanted wireless technology or implant percutaneous technology and advanced prosthesis. Using the fully implanted technology, the nerves in the residual limb are stimulated to potentially create sensations related to the missing limb. Participants will be compensated for their time.
Study Requirements:
- Must be 21 or older
- Must have an acquired upper limb amputation
Contact info@aptcenter.org if you are interested in getting involved!
