Training leg reflexes to reduce neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury

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 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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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  Recruiting Medical University of South Carolina · Charleston, South Carolina and 1 other locations · NCT05094362

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.