Reeve-Irvine Scientific Research
Improving Motor Recovery
One of the most important discoveries in the last decade is that function after spinal cord injury can be greatly enhanced by training. The injured spinal cord is capable of learning, and studies of the basic cellular mechanisms of this form of memory may lead to important new therapeutic strategies. Also, finding ways to "teach" the injured spinal cord more effectively will maximize the potential for recovery.
Drs. Suzy Kim and Steve Cramer are exploring how specialized training coupled with mental practice can improve function. Drs. Kim Anderson, Steve Cramer, and Os Steward are developing new assessment techniques for measuring recovery, especially of upper extremity function, following spinal cord and brain injury.
Dr. David Reinkensmeyer is developing novel rehabilitation strategies involving robotic applications (David Reinkensmeyer). Dr. Reinkensmeyer, an aerospace engineer, is specifically interested in the area of biomechtronics, or the use of intelligent electromechanical systems to diagnose, treat and support affected functions of the human body. He and his team have developed a robot that helps to retrain arm movements. The device supports the arm and basically removes gravity, and then uses a video game to repeat different movements, strengthening muscles and neural connections. Dr. Reinkensmeyer is also collaborating with researchers at California State University at Los Angeles and UCLA to develop a robot that coordinates walking training. |
