Ear-based vagus nerve stimulation paired with arm rehabilitation for cervical spinal cord injury

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

Adults with traumatic incomplete cervical spinal cord injury (AIS B-D), at least 12 months and under 10 years post-injury, who retain some residual hand movement will be enrolled. Participants receive transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) paired with guided upper-limb rehabilitation while clinicians record safety and feasibility outcomes. The protocol excludes non-traumatic SCI, people with cardiac disorders or implanted pacemakers, intracranial metal, significant brain injury, recent ear trauma, or medications that would interfere with VNS. Sessions take place at the Neurorecovery Research Center (TIRR Memorial Hermann) and UTHealth in Houston.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of traumatic incomplete (AIS B-D) cervical spinal cord injury (C8 and above)
* at least 12 months post-traumatic SCI but less than 10 years post-SCI
* demonstrate some residual movement in the upper limb (e.g., able to perform pinch movement with thumb and index finger sufficient to grip small objects such as marble)

Exclusion Criteria:

* non-traumatic SCI
* recent ear trauma and skin lesions at the site of stimulation, such as sunburn, cuts, and open sores,
* facial or ear pain,
* allergic reaction to adhesives and electrodes,
* any current or past history of cardiovascular disorders,
* intracranial metal implants, pacemakers,
* concomitant clinically significant brain injury,
* receiving medication that may significantly interfere with the actions of VNS on neurotransmitter systems at study entry
* If there is a plan for alteration in upper-extremity therapy or medication for muscle tone during the course of the study;
* medical or mental instability;
* pregnancy or plans to become pregnant during the study period

Where it's running

• Neurorecovery Research Center, TIRR MHH
  Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting
• The University of Texas Health Science Center at Houston
  Houston, Texas, United States Not yet recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Radha Korupolu — The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
• Study coordinator: Radha Korupolu, MD
• Email: Radha.Korupolu@uth.tmc.edu
• Phone: 713-797-5233

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.