AIH for Spinal Cord Repair

About this trial

This trial is enrolling individuals with chronic incomplete cervical (neck area) spinal cord injuries to study the effect of repetitive acute intermittent hypoxia (rAIH) and a drug called d-cycloserine on reaching and grasping function. AIH involves repeatedly breathing air with low oxygen content for brief periods, alternating with room air having normal oxygen content. There is evidence to suggest this may improve recovery of function through activation and adaptability of brain and spinal cord nerve circuits (plasticity). D-cycloserine is also thought to increase such plasticity. The aim of this study is to find the best combination of rAIH, exercise training and medication to increase neurological recovery after injury. If selected for the study, participants will all receive exercise training for both hands and will be assigned to one of four groups. The groups will receive either rAIH; sham (inactive) rAIH; rAIH + drug; or rAIH and placebo drug. Half-way through the study, participants will switch from treatment group to sham group, and vice versa (crossover), to allow comparison of treatment combinations. Participants use a mask during the breathing regimen and do not know their oxygen content.