Research summary
Many neurological conditions—such as spinal cord injury, stroke, Parkinson’s disease and multiple sclerosis—have devastating effects on the lives of people who suffer from them. These conditions compromise mobility, sensation, breathing, and bowel and bladder function, and the effects can be lifelong. Researchers have tried without much success to remedy these issues by regenerating damaged tissues in the nervous system.
Dr. Vivan Mushahwar, Canada Research Chair in Functional Restoration, is trying to develop treatments that restore function using creative applications of electrical stimulation and active rehabilitation. She and her research team are developing intelligent medical devices and innovative rehabilitation interventions to help people stand and walk again and to prevent complications like pressure ulcers. Their work has the potential to dramatically improve care and outcomes for people with neurological conditions.