Eccentric Muscle Training, Stimulation, and Biomarkers in SCI

About this trial

This trial is enrolling individuals with cervical and thoracic spinal cord injuries to test the effect of electrical stimulation of muscles (trunk and legs) in combination with walking training. Investigators want to see if the training (walking downhill on a slight slope on a treadmill) plus stimulation of muscles that are not working normally improves walking function. Investigators will look for specific features in blood and the fluid around the spinal cord to determine whether to begin training at three months or six months following spinal cord injury. If included, participants will receive either: 1) electrical stimulation of the trunk and legs during 20 minutes walking training (5 min bouts, 5 min rest), 3 sessions per week, for 12 weeks; or 2) standard rehabilitation. Final testing will be performed after 16 weeks.