Electrical Stimulation for Spinal Cord Injury
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This study examines the immediate and long-term effects of lumbosacral TENS on spasticity and residual voluntary force control in spinal cord injury in comparison to no TENS. Participants in the intervention group will receive 2 months of TENS. Participants in the control group will receive TENS after a 2-month delay. Modified Ashworth score and pendulum test will be used to assess spasticity and force control. Electrophysiological measures will be used to assess the activity profile of motorneurons.
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 the treatment TENS for spinal cord injury?
Is electrical stimulation for spinal cord injury generally safe for humans?
Spinal cord stimulation (SCS) has been used for over 40 years and is generally considered safe, with well-defined complication rates. However, some rare complications like new onset tinnitus and other neurological effects have been reported, and safety reporting in clinical trials for spinal cord injury is often suboptimal.678910
How does the treatment TENS differ from other treatments for spinal cord injury?
TENS (Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation) is unique because it uses electrical currents to stimulate nerves through the skin, which can help manage pain and spasticity in spinal cord injury patients. Unlike other treatments, TENS is non-invasive and can promote neural regeneration by activating neural stem cells in the spinal cord.234511
Research Team
Monica A Gorassini, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Alberta
Eligibility Criteria
Adults over 18 with spinal cord injuries between the neck and mid-back (C5-T12 levels) can join this trial. It's not for those who've had a severe head injury, uncontrolled blood pressure spikes due to nerve issues (autonomic dysreflexia), or conditions that make TENS unsafe.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants in the intervention group receive 2 months of TENS immediately, while the control group receives TENS after a 2-month delay
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in spasticity and motor control using various assessments
Treatment Details
Interventions
- TENS
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Alberta
Lead Sponsor