Hybrid Functional Electrical Stimulation Exercise to Prevent Cardiopulmonary Declines in High-level Spinal Cord Injury

About this trial

This trial is recruiting individuals with spinal cord injuries to assess modifications to a fitness program called Functional Electrical Stimulation Row Training (FESRT). The program involves using a rowing machine with volitional arm movements and skin-surface electrical stimulation of the weakened or paralyzed leg muscles. The modifications include an external breathing device (non-invasive ventilation; NIV) used during exercise and a drug called Buspar, taken orally twice daily for six months. Participants will complete 6 months of FESRT and will be randomly assigned to one of 4 study groups: 1) NIV + Buspar; 2) NIV + placebo; 3) sham NIV + Buspar; or 4) sham NIV + placebo drug. Training sessions will be conducted 2-3 times per week for 6 months. Final outcome assessments, including aerobic exercise capacity and ventilation during exercise, will be performed after 6 months.