Improving hand function after spinal cord injury using brain stimulation

Neuromodulation After Spinal Cord Injury to Improve Limb Function

NA · State University of New York at Buffalo · NCT06815601

This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help improve hand movement in people with spinal cord injuries.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 75 Years
SexAll
SponsorState University of New York at Buffalo (other)
Locations1 site (Buffalo, New York)
Trial IDNCT06815601 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI) and healthy adults. The goal is to understand how noninvasive brain stimulation can enhance neuroplasticity in the corticospinal pathway, potentially leading to improved hand movements. Participants will undergo both rTMS and sham rTMS treatments, alongside motor training, to assess the impact on their functional abilities. The research aims to strengthen neural connections that may help restore movement in those affected by SCI.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include healthy adults aged 18-75 and adults with spinal cord injuries within the same age range.

Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled medical issues, significant cognitive impairments, or those on certain medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance hand function and quality of life for individuals with spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using neuromodulation techniques like rTMS for improving motor function, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Healthy adults between the ages of 18-75 years old who are right-handed
* Adults between the ages of 18-75 years old who have had a spinal cord injury (SCI)

Exclusion Criteria:

For both healthy individuals and those with SCI:

* Uncontrolled medical problems including pulmonary, cardiovascular or orthopedic disease
* Any debilitating disease prior to the SCI that caused exercise intolerance
* Ongoing major depression or altered cognitive status
* Metal plate in skull
* History of seizures
* Receiving drugs acting primarily on the central nervous system, which lower the seizure threshold such as antipsychotic drugs
* Pregnant females

Where this trial is running

Buffalo, New York

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: Spinal Cord Injury, Spinal Cord Injury Cervical, spinal cord injury, SCI, Stimulation, Paralysis, rTMS, transcranial magnetic stimulation

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.