Comparison of Transcutaneous and Epidural Spinal Stimulation for Improving Function

About this trial

This is a trial to compare two different types of spinal cord stimulation on overall motor (arm, trunk, and leg) function, bladder function, and quality of life in persons with chronic incomplete spinal cord injury. The two different types of spinal stimulation are: 1) spinal stimulation through non-invasive skin surface electrical stimulation (“transcutaneous spinal stimulation”; TransQ); and 2) spinal stimulation through surgically implanted electrodes next to the spinal cord (“epidural spinal stimulation”). The trial will consist of a phased intervention program and involve the following: 1) baseline (pre-intervention) testing; 2) physical therapy only; 3) TransQ stimulation plus physical therapy; 4) wash out/recovery (no intervention provided during this time); 5) epidural stimulation plus physical therapy; and 6) follow-up (a no-treatment period of time after the intervention is completed) testing. Additional functional testing will be performed at baseline and during the intervention and follow-up period.