Improving recovery for patients with non-traumatic spinal cord injuries

Enhancing Recovery in Non-Traumatic Spinal Cord Injury: Implementation of an Integrated Program for the Assessment of Rehabilitation Therapies

NA · Western University, Canada · NCT03320759

This study tests whether rehabilitation can help people with spinal cord injuries recover better and improve their brain function compared to those who don’t receive therapy.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorWestern University, Canada (other)
Locations1 site (London, Ontario)
Trial IDNCT03320759 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of rehabilitation on brain plasticity and recovery in patients with spinal cord compression. It combines clinical care, including preoperative evaluation, surgery, and rehabilitation, with advanced imaging techniques to assess neurological function. The research aims to compare outcomes between patients receiving rehabilitation and those who do not, focusing on how therapy can enhance recovery and improve neurological scores.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are right-handed individuals with a history of progressive neurological deficits lasting less than 24 months who are eligible for MRI scanning.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurological disorders, systemic diseases affecting neurological function, or those unable to participate in follow-up sessions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies that enhance recovery for patients with spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results in enhancing recovery through rehabilitation in similar patient populations, indicating potential success for this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* right-handed
* have a history of progressive neurological deficits \<24 months
* eligible for MRI scanning

Exclusion Criteria:

* having any other neurological disorder or systemic disease that can impair neurological function
* not fluent in reading and speaking English
* being claustrophobic
* unable to follow simple task instructions and maintain standardized movements
* being unable to return for all follow-up imaging and rehabilitation sessions

Where this trial is running

London, Ontario

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 Compression, Spinal Cord Injuries, Cervical Spondylosis, Myelopathy Cervical

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.