Neuromodulation for improving motor function in children with cerebral palsy
Neuromodulation of the Cortex and Spinal Cord
This study is testing if a new brain stimulation technique can help improve movement and motor skills in children with cerebral palsy by looking at how their brains and spinal cords work compared to kids without the condition.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 11 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Father Flanagan's Boys' Home Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boys Town, Nebraska) |
| Trial ID | NCT06586437 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to investigate the differences in sensorimotor cortical and spinal cord activity in children with cerebral palsy (CP) compared to neurotypical controls. It will utilize advanced imaging techniques such as magnetoencephalography (MEG) and fMRI to quantify these differences and assess the effects of transcutaneous current stimulation on motor function. The goal is to understand the neurophysiological changes associated with CP and how neuromodulation can potentially improve motor outcomes. Participants will undergo various clinical assessments to evaluate their motor function and brain activity.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include children with cerebral palsy classified at Gross Motor Function Classification System levels I-IV.
Not a fit: Patients with atypical neurodevelopmental conditions or those who have had orthopedic surgery in the last six months may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved motor function and quality of life for children with cerebral palsy.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with neuromodulation techniques in similar populations, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * For Cerebral Palsy Participants: * Gross Motor Function Classification score (GMFCS) levels between I-IV * For Neurotypical Controls: * No known atypical neurodevelopment (e.g. autism, Down Syndrome, ADHD, etc.) Exclusion Criteria: * For Cerebral Palsy Participants: * Pregnancy * Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, is a contraindication to participation * The presence of any ferrous metal implant, including orthodonture, which may interfere with the MEG data acquisition and/or be an MRI safety concern * No orthopedic surgery in the last 6 months or metal in their body that would preclude the use of an MRI * For Neurotypical Controls: Pregnancy * Any condition that, in the opinion of the investigator, is a contraindication to participation * The presence of any ferrous metal implant, including orthodonture, which may interfere with the MEG data acquisition and/or be an MRI safety concern * No orthopedic surgery in the last 6 months or metal in their body that would preclude the use of an MRI
Where this trial is running
Boys Town, Nebraska
- Boys Town National Research Hospital — Boys Town, Nebraska, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Max J Kurz, PhD — Father Flanagan's Boys' Home
- Study coordinator: Max J Kurz, PhD
- Email: max.kurz@boystown.org
- Phone: 531-355-8916
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.