Brain and Nerve Stimulation for Hand Muscles in Spinal Cord Injury and ALS

About this trial

This trial is recruiting individuals with chronic cervical (neck area) spinal cord injuries to test the effect of non-invasive magnetic stimulation at the head combined with electrical stimulation at the wrist and neck. The magnetic and electrical stimulation will be precisely timed so that the pulses arrive at the target spinal motor neurons at the same time - this precise timing is responsible for what researchers call "spike timing-dependent plasticity.” The researchers want to see if the combination of stimulation strengthens the connection (plasticity) between the brain and hand movements. Participants will receive different combinations of both stimulation types in 8 sessions. This trial is designed to look only for temporary changes in function. If such changes are found, researchers plan future studies to focus on how to prolong any beneficial effect.