Transcutaneous Electrical Spinal Stimulation to Restore Upper Extremity Functions in Spinal Cord Injury

About this trial

This is a study to determine if skin-surface (transcutaneous) electrical stimulation of the spinal cord improves hand function in individuals with chronic cervical (neck area) spinal cord injury (tetraplegia). Researchers want to see if this type of electrical stimulation can enhance conscious motor control of hands and arms by activating spinal cord nerve circuits. This study will apply non-invasive stimulation at the back of the neck (cervical spine) and assess changes in movement and feeling in the hands. After an initial baseline test, there will be two intervention arms: participants will be randomly assigned to either start physical therapy targeting hand function alone, or will start the same physical therapy along with spinal cord stimulation. After the first study arm each participant will be assigned to the other arm. After completion of both arms, long-term effects of the interventions will be assessed. Participants will be in the study for 6 months.