Noninvasive spinal cord stimulation to improve arm function

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of transcutaneous electrical stimulation (tcES) on upper extremity function in individuals with spinal cord injuries and stroke. It aims to explore how different stimulation parameters, such as electrode placement and frequency, influence neural excitability and motor function. Participants will undergo a combination of tcES and activity-based therapy, with assessments to evaluate improvements in upper extremity function. The study employs a comprehensive set of neurophysiological techniques to link stimulation effects with functional outcomes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

SCI cohort:

* individuals aged 18 to 75 years of age who have suffered a spinal cord injury
* cervical level injury (C3 to C8)
* at least 1-year post-injury
* for individuals taking medications for spasmolysis or muscle relaxation (e.g. oral baclofen, tizanidine, dantrolene, vigabatrin, gabapentin, or benzodiazepine), dose and regimen must be stable for at least 4 weeks prior to screening

Stroke cohort:

* individuals aged 18-75 years of age who have suffered any type of stroke resulting in upper extremity motor dysfunction with partially preserved motor function
* ≥ 6 months post-stroke
* At least 4 months since last BoNT injection for treatment of spasticity or any other condition or ≤ 2 months after study completion
* for individuals taking medications for spasmolysis or muscle relaxation (e.g. oral baclofen, tizanidine, dantrolene, vigabatrin, gabapentin, or benzodiazepine), dose and regimen must be stable for at least 4 weeks prior to screening

Exclusion Criteria:

* pregnant women
* aphasia or dysphasia
* spasticity grade Modified Ashworth Scale ≥ 3

Transcranial magnetic stimulation-specific exclusion criteria (both cohorts)

* participants with active or inactive implants including cardiac pacemakers, implantable defibrillators, ocular implants, deep brain stimulators, vagus nerve stimulator, and implanted medication pumps
* participants with conductive, ferromagnetic or other magnetic-sensitive metals implanted in their head
* participants with a history of seizures or epilepsy
* participants taking any medication which may reduce seizure threshold

Where it's running

• Glenrose Rehabilitation Hospital
  Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Recruiting
• University of Alberta
  Edmonton, Alberta, Canada Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Jessica D'Amico, PhD — University of Alberta
• Study coordinator: Jessica D'Amico, PhD
• Email: damico1@ualberta.ca
• Phone: 7807357917

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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.