Breathing low oxygen to improve movement after spinal injury
Official title: Mechanisms of Intermittent Hypoxia-induced Motor Recovery in Persons With SCI
Run by Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital · NCT02323945 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if breathing low oxygen for short periods can help people with chronic spinal cord injuries improve their movement and walking ability when combined with exercise.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 44 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Cambridge, Massachusetts) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 2014 |
| Main results expected | August 2027 |
| Study ends | November 2027 |
| Registry record updated | March 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT02323945 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 to 75 with motor-incomplete spinal cord injuries that are stable and have visible leg movement.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe concurrent medical conditions, pregnant women, or those with a history of seizures or brain injury may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of breathing low oxygen levels in brief bouts, known as intermittent hypoxia, on improving motor function and spinal plasticity in individuals with chronic spinal cord injuries. The research aims to understand how this treatment can enhance walking ability and muscle coordination, particularly when combined with walking or strength training. Participants will undergo a series of interventions to assess the impact of intermittent hypoxia on their mobility and strength over a defined period.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to significant improvements in mobility and quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with intermittent hypoxia in enhancing motor function in spinal cord injury patients, suggesting a potential for success in this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 and 75 years (the latter to reduce likelihood of heart disease) * Medical clearance to participate * Lesion at or below C2 and above T12 with non-progressive etiology * Classified as motor-incomplete with visible volitional leg movement * Injury greater than 1 year Exclusion Criteria: * Concurrent severe medical illness (i.e., infection, cardiovascular disease, ossification, recurrent autonomic dysreflexia, unhealed decubiti, and history of pulmonary complications) * Pregnant women because of the unknown affects of AIH on pregnant women and fetus * History of seizures, brain injury, and/or epilepsy * Undergoing concurrent physical therapy * Diabetes * Cirrhosis * Caffeine and/or NSAID allergies or intolerances
Where it's running
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Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
Cambridge, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Randy D Trumbower, PT, PhD — Harvard Medical School (HMS and HSDM)
- Study coordinator: Randy D Trumbower, PT, PhD
- Email: randy.trumbower@mgh.harvard.edu
- Phone: 617-952-6951
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.