Pelvic floor muscle training for bladder, bowel, and sexual function in spinal cord injury patients
Exploring the Feasibility and Urogenital Benefits of Pelvic Floor Muscle Training in Individuals With Motor-incomplete Spinal Cord Injury
This study is testing if a pelvic floor muscle training program can help people with spinal cord injuries improve their bladder, bowel, and sexual function.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 19 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of British Columbia Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Vancouver, British Columbia) |
| Trial ID | NCT06705790 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial aims to evaluate the feasibility and potential benefits of a pelvic floor muscle training program for individuals with motor-incomplete spinal cord injury. Participants will engage in a 3-month training program, during which researchers will assess recruitment rates, adherence, and the program's impact on bladder, bowel, and sexual function. The study will involve a series of tests at the beginning, middle, and end of the program to gather data on its effectiveness and participant experiences.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 19 and older with non-progressive, motor-incomplete spinal cord injuries at or above the T12 level, experiencing related dysfunction.
Not a fit: Patients who are currently pregnant, have had recent urogenital surgery, or have severe medical issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve bladder, bowel, and sexual health for individuals with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While pelvic floor muscle training has been explored in other contexts, this specific application for spinal cord injury is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Are at least 19 years of age. * Have a non-progressive, motor-incomplete spinal cord injury that is at or above the T12 neurological level at least 12 months ago. * Have symptoms of bladder, bowel, and/or sexual dysfunction that are caused by your spinal cord injury. * Have stable management of spinal cord related secondary health concerns (e.g., spasticity, neuropathic pain). * Are able to speak and understand English. Exclusion Criteria: * Are currently pregnant, have been pregnant within the past 6 months, or are planning to become pregnant in the next 6 months. * Have had urogenital surgery within the past 12 months. * Have received Botox bladder injections within the past 4 weeks, or anticipate receiving an injection in the next 6 months. * Have presence of severe medical issue that in the investigator's judgement would adversely affect the participant's participation in the study. Examples include, but are not limited to pressure sores, cardiovascular disease, and unmanaged diabetes. * Have any permanent metal fixtures in their head (excluding dental fillings), or pacemakers, stimulators, or implanted medication pumps. * Have a history of seizures, are taking medications that lower the seizure threshold, or experience recurring headaches. * Have a condition for which exercise is contraindicated.
Where this trial is running
Vancouver, British Columbia
- Blusson Spinal Cord Centre — Vancouver, British Columbia, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Tania Lam, PhD, PT — University of British Columbia, ICORD
- Study coordinator: Alison Williams
- Email: alison.williams@ubc.ca
- Phone: 604-675-8815
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.