Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 45 Men only

Improving bladder function in spinal cord injury patients using neuromodulation

Official title: Improving Bladder Function in SCI by Neuromodulation

Run by University of California, Los Angeles · NCT02331979 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing if new electrical and magnetic treatments can help people with spinal cord injuries improve their bladder control and function.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 45 Years
SexMen only
Enrollment24 (estimated)
SponsorUniversity of California, Los Angeles
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Los Angeles, California)
StatusRecruiting
StartedSeptember 2015
Main results expectedDecember 31, 2026
Study endsJanuary 31, 2027
Registry record updatedFebruary 13, 2026
Trial IDNCT02331979 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are males aged 18-45 who are at least one year post spinal cord injury and have a neurogenic bladder requiring catheterization.

Probably not a fit

Patients with a history of autonomic dysreflexia, significant musculoskeletal dysfunction, or those who have undergone certain bladder surgeries 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 trial investigates the safety and effectiveness of spinal cord neuromodulation techniques, specifically transcutaneous electrical stimulation and magnetic stimulation, to enhance urinary bladder function in individuals with spinal cord injury. Participants will undergo these neuromodulation interventions to assess improvements in bladder control and function. The study aims to provide a non-invasive treatment option for neurogenic bladder issues associated with spinal cord injuries.

Why it matters

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

How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using neuromodulation techniques for bladder function improvement, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Male 18-45 years;
2. At least 1 year post-injury;
3. Non-progressive SCI at C2-T8 (non-conus injury);
4. Motor Complete ASIA (A or B);
5. Neurogenic bladder requiring clean intermittent straight catheterization;
6. Able to attend twice weekly testing sessions for 6 months.
7. Have intact lower extremity anatomy and able to use lower extremity for assistive standing and stepping.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. History of autonomic dysreflexia;
2. Ventilator dependency;
3. Musculoskeletal dysfunction, unhealed fracture, pressure ulcer, active infection;
4. Clinically significant depression or ongoing drug abuse;
5. Received botox injection, or bladder surgery (suprapubic access, Brindley procedure, etc.); 6. Prostatic hypertrophy or bladder outlet disorder;

7\. Cardiopulmonary disease that precludes lower extremity training or rehabilitation.

Where it's running

  • University of California, Los Angeles
    Los Angeles, California, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 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.