Neuromod Trial for Neuropathic Pain Post-SCI Sees $2.2M MRFF Grant

Image credit: Neuroscience Research Australia

An Australian trial aimed at reducing neuropathic pain for people with spinal cord injury has been awarded $2.22 million from the Medical Research Future Fund (MRFF).

Led by Professor Sylvia Gustin from Neuroscience Research Australia (NeuRA) and UNSW Sydney, the funded NeuRoStiM trial will explore the use of interactive brain-computer interface (BCI) neuromodulation therapy for treating people living with neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury, in conjunction with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS).

The technology works by helping patients to control irregular brain rhythms via electroencephalography (EEG) feedback “in a way that reduces their pain”, researchers said.

“As effective pharmacological and non-pharmacological treatments remain elusive, there is an urgent need to test new treatments for neuropathic pain,” said Professor Gustin in a statement.

“This novel brain technology treatment has the potential to support people who have developed neuropathic pain after a spinal cord injury across Australia, including those in regional, rural, and remote areas where access to pain treatment is limited.”

Refer to the full story via NeuRA for further details.