Autonomic Effects of Stimulation in SCI

Details

This study aims to determine the effects of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation to increase blood pressure and use that device to increase exercise endurance time and heart rate recovery during arm cycle ergometry. In addition, the investigators will see if the stimulation helps regulate body temperature when in a cool environment. The study will consist of 7 visits, that will be between 3-4 hours in duration, separated by no less than 3 days. Visit 1 will consist of determining baseline autonomic function and screening visit. The participant will undergo a sit up set to determine hypotension and orthostatic hypotension and complete a couple surveys. Visits 2 and 3 will determine which site the stimulation parameters should be on the spine, either T7-T8 or T11-12. The site that increases seated systolic blood pressure will be used for the rest of the study. Visits 4 and 5 will consists of putting the electrode at the optimal spot on the spine and completing a submaximal arm ergometry exercise and the other visit will be a sham visit. Visits 6 and 7 will consist of assessing core temperature when in a cool environment with the stimulator on and off.