Several experimental therapies are aimed at restoring function in chronic spinal cord injury, when recovery has stabilized a year or more after injury.

These include 4-aminopyridine (a drug that increases excitability of demyelinated axons), porcine fetal stem cell transplants (stem cells from pigs), and olfactory ensheathing glial transplants (cells from the nasal mucosa or from olfactory bulbs).

Other experimental therapies are being planned, including drugs and chemicals that block growth inhibitors. Thus, there will be many opportunities to participate in clinical trials.