Training leg reflexes to reduce neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury
Targeted Spinal Cord Plasticity for Alleviating SCI-related Neuropathic Pain
NA · Medical University of South Carolina · NCT05492188
This study is testing whether training leg reflexes can help reduce neuropathic pain in people with spinal cord injuries.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 15 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Medical University of South Carolina (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT05492188 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to investigate the effects of reflex training on reducing neuropathic pain in individuals with spinal cord injuries. It involves recruiting 15 participants with neuropathic pain to undergo operant conditioning of cutaneous reflexes over approximately 50 visits spanning 6.5 months. The study also includes assessments of reflexes and sensation in the leg, along with questionnaires on pain and quality of life for both participants with and without neuropathic pain. The goal is to understand the relationship between reflexes and neuropathic pain and to explore potential therapeutic interventions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who are neurologically stable, at least one year post spinal cord injury, and experiencing neuropathic pain in the lower leg.
Not a fit: Patients with motoneuron injury, uncontrolled peripheral neuropathy, or significant cognitive impairment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly alleviate neuropathic pain for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of operant conditioning for neuropathic pain is novel, similar studies exploring reflex training have shown promise in related areas.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. neurologically stable (\>1 year post SCI) 2. medical clearance to participate 3. ability to stand with or without an assistive device for at least 3 minutes at a time 4. expectation that current medication will be maintained without change for at least 3 months (stable use of anti-spasticity medication is accepted) 5. For participants with neuropathic pain, the area of neuropathic pain must include lower leg. Exclusion Criteria: 1. motoneuron injury 2. known cardiac condition 3. medically unstable condition (incl. pregnancy) 4. cognitive impairment 5. uncontrolled peripheral neuropathy 6. frequent use of electrical spinal stimulation (either transcutaneous or epidural) for pain treatment 7. daily use of electrical stimulation to the leg 8. complete lack of cutaneous sensation around foot.
Where this trial is running
Charleston, South Carolina
- Medical University of South Carolina — Charleston, South Carolina, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Aiko Thompson, PhD — Medical University of South Carolina
- Study coordinator: Blair Dellenbach, MSOT
- Email: stecb@musc.edu
- Phone: 843-792-6313
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.
Conditions: Spinal Cord Injuries, Neuropathic Pain, Neurological Injury, Pain, Neuroplasticity