Effects of intermittent hypoxia on limb functions in people with incomplete spinal cord injury

Effects of Device Induced Acute Intermittent Hypoxia in Upper and Lower Limb Activity Functions in Persons With Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury.

NA · Riphah International University · NCT05491837

This study tests if short periods of low oxygen can help improve movement in the arms and legs of people with incomplete spinal cord injuries.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment68 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University (other)
Locations1 site (Islamabad)
Trial IDNCT05491837 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the impact of acute intermittent hypoxia on improving upper and lower limb functions in individuals with incomplete spinal cord injuries. The study employs a randomized controlled design with triple blinding to ensure unbiased results. Participants will receive either intermittent hypoxia or normoxia treatments, and their functional recovery will be assessed through various measures. The trial aims to enhance neuroplasticity and functional recovery in this population, addressing a significant gap in rehabilitation strategies.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 18 and older with incomplete spinal cord injuries classified as ASIA category C or D.

Not a fit: Patients with complete spinal cord injuries or those with unstable orthopedic conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve mobility and quality of life for patients with incomplete spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have performed: While the concept of using intermittent hypoxia to enhance neuroplasticity is promising, this specific approach in the context of incomplete spinal cord injury is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Incomplete SCI≥ 3 months(21);
2. Traumatic and non-traumatic, non-progressive lesions, Aged ≥ 18 years ;
3. LesionC4 and below as classified ASIA category C and D;
4. Both gender
5. Ability to ambulate with or without assistive devices; and
6. Ability to follow verbal and visual command.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Participants with complete spinal cord injury;
2. Unstable orthopedic injuries and joint contractures
3. Osteoporosis with high risk of fracture;
4. Pressure ulcers and cutaneous lesion(4)
5. Cognitive impairment, severe cardiopulmonary complication such as severe breathing disorder

Where this trial is running

Islamabad

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: Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury

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.