The Future of Innovative Neurorestoration Approaches: Joe Kardine, MS, OTR, CBIS

WATCH TIME: 3 minutes

"From the technology side, if you’re making technology that is stagnant and not changing neuroplasticity, then you’re doing the same thing over and over again, it just looks different."

Patients with neurological conditions such as stroke, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis (ALS), muscular dystrophy, cerebral palsy, and others, may experience mobility issues or functional loss in ambulation that can impact quality of life. Institutions like the Jefferson Center for Neurorestoration at Thomas Jefferson University have been dedicated to developing, refining, and making available wearable and implantable neurotechnologies for these patients.

Researchers at the center have worked on projects such as vagus nerve stimulation, the NuroSleeve, Nurobike, and brain computer interface. In the past, neurorestoration was typically done through physical activity-related exercises; however, with the advances in technology, the capabilities to treat impaired patients have expanded. Joe Kardine, MS, OTR, CBIS, clinical program manager at the Jefferson Center for Neurorestoration, believes there are several untapped opportunities within the neurorestoration field; however, executing and implementing new technology is still something the space struggles with.

In an interview with NeurologyLive^®, Kardine provided insight on the future of neurorestoration and what clinicians can look forward to. He spoke on the improvements in technology and the areas within the field that still need additional research.