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 study 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.
Included participants
Traumatic
Non-traumatic
What’s involved
Type
Details
Attend 2 to 5 sessions of weekly study treatment sessions and testing activities. Available for study treatment and follow-up participation for a duration of 6 months.
Potential benefits
Main benefits
Arm/hand function
Additional benefits
General health
Mental health and psychosocial factors
Spasticity
Good to know: Potential benefits are defined as outcomes that are being measured during and/or after the trial.
Wings for Life supports SCITrialsFinder
Wings for Life has proudly initiated, led and funded the new version of the SCI Trials Finder website. Wings for Life aims to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. The not-for-profit foundation funds world-class scientific research and clinical trials around the globe.
Learn more- Trial recruitment status
- Ended
- Trial start date
- 27 Dec 2016
- Organisation
- University of Washington
- Trial recruitment status
- Ended
- Trial start date
- 27 Dec 2016
- Organisation
- University of Washington
About this trial
Included participants
What’s involved
Potential benefits
Wings for Life supports SCITrialsFinder
Wings for Life has proudly initiated, led and funded the new version of the SCI Trials Finder website. Wings for Life aims to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. The not-for-profit foundation funds world-class scientific research and clinical trials around the globe.
Learn more