Electrical stimulation of the spinal cord: modern possibilities of application in neurorehabilitation

Injuries and disorders of the nervous system are a significant public health problem both in Russia and globally. In recent years, significant progress has been made in the development of spinal cord stimulation techniques aimed at restoring lost functions. Epidural (ESCS) and percutaneous (PSCS) spinal cord stimulation are promising approaches capable of improving motor activity and restoring sensitivity in patients with various neurological conditions. As a result of the research search, 3,887 publications were extracted from PubMed/MEDLINE databases and 1,432 publications found using Google Scholar. After the selection procedure, 66 articles were included in the review. Recent studies demonstrate that ESCS and PSCS can improve motor and sensory functions in various neurological diseases, opening up new opportunities to improve the quality of life of patients. Despite the fact that these neuromodulation methods have already proven their effectiveness in improving motor function and restoring sensory feedback, most of the work carried out so far has been in the nature of pilot studies. The successful clinical implementation of both ESCS and PSCS in the field of rehabilitation will require larger and more comprehensive studies, including home trials, to provide convincing evidence of their potential in restorative medicine. In addition, to optimize the effect on the dorsal roots of the spinal cord, it is necessary to improve existing electrode designs for ESCS. In this regard, further work and funding in the field of equipment development, stimulation protocols and scientific research for ESCS and PSCS should become priorities in the near future.