Optimizing sensory feedback to maximize hand and arm function after tetraplegia
Official title: Development of Optimal Sensory Feedback Strategies to Maximize Function After Tetraplegia: A Sub-study of the Reconnecting the Hand and Arm to the Brain (ReHAB) Clinical Trial
Run by Case Western Reserve University · NCT07225582 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests different patterns of brain and nerve electrical stimulation to restore touch and pressure sensations in people with cervical spinal cord injuries who already have ReHAB implants.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 22 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 3 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Case Western Reserve University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Cleveland, Ohio) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 13, 2026 |
| Main results expected | September 1, 2030 |
| Study ends | September 1, 2030 |
| Registry record updated | February 19, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07225582 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are people with cervical spinal cord injuries who are already implanted through the ReHAB program and can attend regular in-person testing at the Cleveland site.
✕Probably not a fit
Participants without functioning ReHAB system components or those with severe pain or other medical conditions that prevent completing study activities are unlikely to benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Participants are individuals already implanted with intracortical arrays and peripheral nerve cuff electrodes through the ReHAB program. The study delivers intracortical microstimulation (ICMS), peripheral nerve stimulation (PNS), and combined ICMS+PNS using varied temporal and spatial patterns. Perceived sensations will be quantified with classic psychophysical methods and the functional impact measured during closed-loop virtual reality tasks controlled by decoded cortical signals. The aim is to identify stimulation paradigms that produce reliable, localized, and functionally useful sensations for hand and arm use.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this could restore useful touch sensations and improve control of the hand and arm for people with tetraplegia.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work has shown that ICMS and peripheral nerve stimulation can each elicit tactile percepts and support function, but combined ICMS+PNS approaches are novel and remain exploratory.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Enrolled in the ReHAB clinical trial and received ReHAB system components via implantation surgery. 2. Willingness and availability to follow the study protocol. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Lack of function or operability of all implanted ReHAB system components 2. Severe pain or other chronic medical condition that would prevent the participant from completing study-related activities
Where it's running
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Case Western Reserve University
Cleveland, Ohio, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Emily Graczyk, Ph.D. — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: Emily Graczyk, Ph.D.
- Email: elg46@case.edu
- Phone: 216.368.5182
Similar studies
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.