It is well known that paralyzed nerves can be activated through the application of an electrical stimulus. The magnitude of the effect of electrical stimulation can be modulated by changing the number of nerve fibers that are activated and by changing the rate at which they are activated. Electrical stimulation is delivered to the nerve through electrodes that can either be placed on the surface of the skin or placed inside the body on or near the nerves. Each electrode type has different advantages and disadvantages depending on the specific application. The engineering and physiologic principles of electrical activation are well understood, and the parameters for safe stimulation have been established. Many applications of electrical stimulation to activate paralyzed nerves in spinal cord injury are being investigated.

electrode, functional electrical stimulation, neuroprosthesis
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