Creating a cooling vest to help people with spinal cord injuries manage body temperature
Development of a Novel Cooling Vest to Prevent Heat-Induced Thermoregulatory Dysfunction in Persons with Spinal Cord Injury
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · JAMES J PETERS VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11174200
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
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | JAMES J PETERS VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (BRONX, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11174200 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: 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.
Not a fit: Patients with spinal cord injuries below T6 or those without thermoregulatory dysfunction may not benefit from this research.
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 performed: 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
BRONX, UNITED STATES
- 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
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 below.