Electrical stimulation-assisted exercise for people with lower limb paralysis
Official title: Efficacy of Electrical Stimulation Exercise Training for Those With Lower Limb Paralysis
Run by Louis Stokes VA Medical Center · NCT07768761 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether adding electrical stimulation during exercise can improve leg muscle strength and endurance for people with paralysis.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Louis Stokes VA Medical Center Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Cleveland, Ohio) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 19, 2018 |
| Main results expected | January 19, 2031 |
| Study ends | January 19, 2031 |
| Registry record updated | August 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07768761 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with lower limb paralysis from spinal cord injury or other neurological disorders who have innervated leg muscles and can safely participate in an exercise program.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals without usable leg muscles or with medical conditions preventing safe participation may not see benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Participants with lower limb paralysis due to spinal cord injury or other neurological conditions will undergo a training program of 24 to 36 sessions. During exercise like cycling or rowing, surface or implanted electrical stimulators will activate the leg muscles to produce coordinated movements and enhance endurance and peak power. The study focuses on safety and the potential to improve functional exercise capacity through electrically augmented training. Eligibility includes adults with innervated leg muscles who are not pregnant and can tolerate an exercise program. The research is led by Louis Stokes VA Medical Center in Cleveland, Ohio.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience greater leg strength and endurance during and after exercise training.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies with electrical stimulation during exercise have shown improvements in muscle function and endurance in relevant populations, though results vary by condition and protocol.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Lower limb paralysis due to SCI or other neurological disorder * Greater than 18 years of age * Innervated and excitable lower extremity muscles Exclusion Criteria: * Females that are pregnant * Ventilator dependent * Current pressure injuries that would be exacerbated by exercise * History of spontaneous fractures * Cardiovascular or pulmonary disease that would limit the ability to exercise * Uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension * Large body frame that would prevent participant from comfortably fitting the exercise equipment * Any other medical or psychological condition that would be a contraindication to participating in an exercise program
Where it's running
-
Louis Stokes Cleveland VA Medical Center
Cleveland, Ohio, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Maura Malenchek, PTA
- Email: maura.malenchek@va.gov
- Phone: 216-791-3800
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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.