A system and method to treat neuromuscular conditions, including spinal cord injury, by what is characterized as dipole (two point) cortico-muscular stimulation. Two-point stimulation, with oppositely charged electrodes, allows pulsed, direct current to pass through the cortico-muscular pathway. The electrodes are placed on nerves, muscles, or a combination of both, that are on opposite sides of the spinal column, forming a current that passes across the spinal column. Further, an active electrode can be placed on the spinal column and a reference electrode can be placed outside the central nervous system. These methods improve functional recovery of the motor pathway.