Part 2: Spinal Cord Stimulation | May 30th, 2025
In this session, Onward highlighted the collaboration between scientists and clinicians in the development of non-invasive spinal cord stimulation devices. Presenters shared insights from early trials and lessons learned as they navigate the clinical translation process.
Presenters:
Kristen Gelenitis
Kristen received her PhD in Biomedical Engineering from Case Western Reserve University in Cleveland OH, where her research focused on implanted neural stimulation systems and their use for improving exercise outcomes following spinal cord injury. In her current role as Clinical Science Manager at ONWARD Medical, Kristen uses her engineering and research background to support the strategic design and analysis of clinical trials involving novel neurotechnologies – namely ONWARD’s ARC-EX and ARC-IM spinal cord stimulation systems. Her work involves close collaboration with thought-leaders in academic and rehabilitation settings to gather scientific input and ensure their expertise guides translation of ONWARD’s technologies
Maryleen “Mary”K. Jones
Maryleen is an Assistant Professor at Governors State University, where she teaches Neuroscience Therapeutics and Integrated Research coursework. Mary, additionally, serves as the clinical director at Next Steps Chicago of the O’Connor Foundation in Willow Springs, IL. Mary is a Board Certified Neurologic Specialist with 20+ years of practice. Mary received her Master of Physical Therapy Degree from Governors State University and her Doctor of Health Science degree from the University of Indianapolis. Mary’s line of research inquiry involves the clinical application of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation, accessibility facilitators and barriers for persons with disabilities, and application of the movement systems approach in physical therapy curricula and practice. Mary is a member of the American Physical Therapy Association, a member of the Academy of Neurologic Physical Therapy, and the Academy of Pediatric Physical Therapy, where she serves on the Movement Systems Approach Application Task Force. Additionally, Mary serves on the Board of Directors for the Illinois Physical Therapy Foundation, where her work involves advocacy for engagement and facilitation of the implementation of evidence-based practice and student-to-student scholarship. Mary is also a member of the American Congress of Rehabilitation Medicine and is a member of the Spinal Cord Injury and Stroke special interest groups.
Gretchen Nelson
Gretchen holds a Bachelor of Applied Science degree in Neurobiology, Physiology, and Behavior from the University of California, Davis. With a 23-year career spanning both research and sales roles in major healthcare companies, she brings a wealth of experience to the field. Currently serving as the Senior Director of Clinical Operations at ONWARD Medical, Gretchen leads the development and execution of clinical study programs. In this role, she plays a pivotal part in generating clinical evidence to support the efficacy and safety of ONWARD Medical’s innovative technologies.
Mark Pedziwiatr
Mark earned his Master’s degree in Occupational Therapy from Midwestern University, where he conducted research on rehabilitation technology. As an occupational therapist, he brings experience across the continuum of care, including outpatient, inpatient, and acute-care settings. In his current role as a Therapy Consultant with ONWARD Medical, Mark leverages his clinical experience to support the integration and training of therapists in the use of ARC-EX within spinal cord injury (SCI) rehabilitation clinics across the Upper Midwest.
