Therapeutic potential of ultrasound for spinal cord injury

Review article, 2026

Spinal cord injury is a debilitating condition that often results in permanent impairments in motor, sensory, and autonomic functions. The potential for treating spinal cord injury with ultrasound is increasingly being recognized. Ultrasound addresses several key aspects of spinal cord injury, including promoting nerve healing by creating a regenerative environment, attenuating inflammation, and managing secondary complications. While preclinical studies show encouraging results, further translational efforts are necessary to adapt these therapies for clinical use. Insights gained from transcranial ultrasound applications, such as transducer selection, anatomical considerations, and pre-treatment planning, can provide valuable guidance for optimizing ultrasound treatments for spinal cord injury. This literature review highlights the exciting potential of ultrasound therapy in spinal cord injury research and the importance of refining treatment parameters and strategies for successful clinical translation.