Improving Arm Function After Stroke

We are exploring new strategies to improve arm function after stroke. Many stroke survivors are left disabled due to arm weakness despite current rehabilitation treatments. We are trying two novel approaches. One is the use of very early robotic rehabilitation therapy started within a week after stroke and the other is use of a vagus nerve stimulator. This is a device which is implanted under the skin in the chest and attaches to a nerve in the neck. This nerve connects with the brain. We are exploring whether by stimulating this nerve we can send signals to the brain which help it re-wire and repair itself after stroke. This is the first time use of vagus nerve stimulation has been used after stroke.