Feature

Advancing Stroke Care: WashU Medicine Specialists at Barnes-Jewish Hospital Help Chronic Stroke Patients with Innovative Use of Vagus Nerve Stimulation

For years, chronic stroke patients heard familiar feedback regarding their ability to regain strength and mobility after ischemic strokes caused upper-extremity deficits.

May 6, 2026
7 min

Barnes-Jewish

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Vagus nerve stimulation is used alongside therapy for chronic stroke recovery.
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WashU Medicine leads in neurorehabilitation research and clinical practices.
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Neuromodulators released help increase brain plasticity.
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Physical therapy sessions are intensive, occurring three times a week for six weeks.
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Crystal's case showcases significant patient improvements post-VNS.
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Collaboration among specialists is essential in patient recovery protocols.
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Future trials aim to explore enhanced applications of VNS for stroke patients.