Spinal Cord Stimulation for Spinal Cord Injury
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Locomotor training (LT) facilitates recovery of spinal locomotor networks after incomplete spinal cord injury (ISCI), but walking impairments persist. A limitation of LT is insufficient excitation of spinal locomotor circuits to induce neuroplastic recovery. Transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) is a non-invasive approach to increase spinal excitation and modulate spinal reflexes. The study will examine if tsDCS combined with LT enhances locomotor rehabilitation after ISCI.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What data supports the effectiveness of this treatment for spinal cord injury?
Research shows that transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) can modulate spinal cord activity and improve certain functions in people with incomplete spinal cord injury, such as walking ability and muscle control. Additionally, tsDCS has been shown to affect pain pathways and spinal excitability, which may contribute to its effectiveness.12345
Is transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) safe for humans?
How is the treatment tsDCS unique for spinal cord injury?
Transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) is unique because it is a non-invasive treatment that uses weak electrical currents to stimulate the spinal cord, potentially improving movement and reducing spasticity in people with spinal cord injuries. Unlike other treatments, tsDCS can modulate spinal cord excitability and pain pathways without the need for surgery or medication.12345
Research Team
Emily Fox, DPT, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Florida
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults aged 18-65 with a chronic spinal cord injury at T12 or above, who can walk 3 meters with assistance. They must be medically stable and able to consent. Excluded are those with skin wounds, severe spasticity, pregnancy, unstable conditions like heart disease, cognitive impairments, other neurological disorders, joint contractures that limit walking ability, visual impairment preventing safe participation in rehabilitation activities.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive 20 sessions of transcutaneous spinal direct current stimulation (tsDCS) combined with locomotor training (LT) over 5 weeks
Post-intervention Assessment
Clinical assessments of walking function and reflex testing are completed one to three days post-intervention
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment with a follow-up assessment of walking and mobility function
Treatment Details
Interventions
- High Dose Intervention-tsDCS
- Low Dose Intervention-tsDCS
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Florida
Lead Sponsor
Brooks Rehabilitation
Collaborator
The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation
Collaborator