Creating a cooling vest to help people with spinal cord injuries manage body temperature
Official title: Development of a Novel Cooling Vest to Prevent Heat-Induced Thermoregulatory Dysfunction in Persons with Spinal Cord Injury
Funded at James J Peters VA Medical Center · NIH-11174200 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new cooling vest for people with spinal cord injuries above T6 to help them stay cool and comfortable, especially in warm weather, so they can avoid overheating and enjoy a better quality of life.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | James J Peters VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Bronx, United States) |
| Project start | November 1, 2022 |
| Project end | April 30, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I21RX004084-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11174200 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals with spinal cord injuries, especially those with injuries above T6 who experience difficulties in regulating their body temperature.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with spinal cord injuries below T6 or those without thermoregulatory dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a novel cooling vest designed for individuals with spinal cord injuries, particularly those with injuries above T6, who struggle to regulate their body temperature. The vest aims to provide a feedback-controlled cooling mechanism that helps dissipate excess body heat, preventing overheating and its associated health risks. By testing the safety and effectiveness of this cooling technology, the research seeks to improve the quality of life for those affected by thermoregulatory dysfunction. Participants may experience enhanced comfort and reduced risk of heat-related illnesses during warm conditions.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the health and quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries by preventing overheating.
How similar studies have gone: While the approach of using a cooling vest is innovative, similar interventions have shown promise in managing heat-related issues in other populations, suggesting potential for success.
Where this research is happening
-
James J Peters VA Medical Center
Bronx, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Handrakis, John P — James J Peters VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Handrakis, John P
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.