Comparing an updated non-invasive spinal stimulation device with the current device

Multi-Channel Spinal Transcutaneous Electrical Pulsed Stimulation System: STEPSS

NA · Kessler Foundation · NCT07217314

This study will test an updated non-invasive spinal stimulation device against the currently used device in healthy adults to see if the new device is better tolerated and overcomes limitations of the older model.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment10 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorKessler Foundation (other)
Locations1 site (West Orange, New Jersey)
Trial IDNCT07217314 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

Researchers will apply non-invasive spinal stimulation to healthy adult volunteers using both the updated device and the currently used device to compare performance and tolerability. Participants who meet screening criteria will attend a testing session where device settings, participant comfort, and any immediate physiological responses will be recorded. The protocol focuses on safety, participant experience, and technical performance rather than therapeutic effect. Data will inform whether the updated device addresses specific limitations of the existing device and is suitable for future use in spinal cord injury research.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults (18+) who are English proficient, can give informed consent, are available for the testing session, and have no neurological, uncontrolled cardiovascular/pulmonary, skin, or medication-related issues that would interfere with spinal stimulation.

Not a fit: People with past or present nervous system injury or disease, untreated autonomic instability, heart or lung disease, pregnancy, skin conditions affecting stimulation, interfering medications, or ongoing drug abuse are unlikely to benefit and are excluded.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, the updated device could offer improved comfort, safety, and technical performance for future spinal stimulation use in research and therapy.

How similar studies have performed: Non-invasive spinal stimulation approaches have shown promise in research settings for spinal cord injury, but device upgrades are typically incremental and this specific updated device has not been widely tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* At least 18 years of age
* Proficient in English
* Available for the testing session
* Able to give informed consent
* Able to tolerate spinal stimulation

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant (female only).
* Untreated severe and persistent problems regulating blood pressure, heart rate, or other automatic functions.
* Any past or present injury or disease to the nervous system
* Heart or lung disease that may interfere with stimulation
* A skin condition in any area that may affect the ability to receive stimulation
* Taking any medication that may affect the ability to receive spinal stimulation
* Ongoing drug abuse

Where this trial is running

West Orange, New Jersey

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Healthy Participants

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.