The Krishna Lab is investigating mechanisms underlying Spinal Cord Stimulation efficacy using virtual reality and full body illusion.
Epidural spinal cord stimulation (SCS) is an approved treatment for truncal and extremity neuropathic pain. The mechanisms underlying the efficacy of SCS are unknown. Recent advances in cognitive neuroprosthetics using virtual reality allow for modulation of body perception and bodily experience, which has also been shown to modulate pain perception. Combining cognitive neuroprosthetics with neuromodulation techniques, this project is testing whether the analgesic properties of the epidural spinal cord stimulation can be enhanced using a new system of multisensory stimulation based on virtual and enhanced reality (i.e., neuro-visual stimulation).
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