ePoster

Modulation of neuropathic pain and tactile perception in spinal cord injury during an exoskeleton training program

Erik Leemhuis, Maria Luisa De Martino, Angelica Scuderi, Sara Tranquilli, Anna Maria Giannini, Mariella Pazzaglia
FENS Forum 2024(2024)
Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center, Vienna, Austria

Conference

FENS Forum 2024

Messe Wien Exhibition & Congress Center, Vienna, Austria

Resources

Authors & Affiliations

Erik Leemhuis, Maria Luisa De Martino, Angelica Scuderi, Sara Tranquilli, Anna Maria Giannini, Mariella Pazzaglia

Abstract

Spinal cord injuries (SCI) often result in somatosensory system alterations and the development of chronic and neuropathic pain. Despite the availability of various treatments, pain remains refractory in many patients. In our study, we explore the potential benefits of powered exoskeleton training for individuals with SCI, focusing on its impact on tactile perception and neuropathic pain.Nineteen participants with traumatic SCI were recruited for our investigation. The lesion was below the T4 level for all participants. We evaluated changes using a computerized pressure algometer, the Numerical Rating Scale (NRS), and the Neuropathic Pain Questionnaire in Spinal Cord Injury (NPQSCI). These assessments were conducted at three key junctures: before each training session (T0), after nine sessions (T1), and after eighteen exoskeleton sessions (T2).Pre/post-session comparisons show a reduction in pain intensity (30% across all sessions) and enhancement in tactile sensitivity at both T1 and T2, particularly notable in the upper part of the legs. Similarly, participants experienced a correlation between pain intensity and tactile sensitivity enhancements, indicating a dynamic relationship between the two variables.Fully explaining the processes underlying these results is still premature; however, an important role is played by adaptive neuroplastic processes promoted by a different, complete, and more active use of the body compared to the wheelchair. Our findings suggest that powered exoskeleton training holds promise as a novel approach to ameliorating neuropathic pain and enhancing tactile perception in individuals with spinal cord injuries, paving the way for innovative strategies to improve their quality of life.

Unique ID: fens-24/modulation-neuropathic-pain-tactile-8e65dd7b