Training to improve hand and arm function in people with spinal cord injuries
Official title: Neuromodulation Training for Upper Extremity Recovery for Chronic Cervical Spinal Cord Injury
Run by Kessler Foundation · NCT04921592 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether a new training program that combines physical exercises with electrical stimulation can help people with spinal cord injuries use their hands and arms better and improve their daily lives.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Kessler Foundation Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (West Orange, New Jersey) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 14, 2021 |
| Main results expected | June 15, 2027 |
| Study ends | November 15, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 6, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT04921592 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older with a cervical spinal cord injury lasting six months or more.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are ventilator-dependent or have significant unrelated medical conditions may not benefit from this study.
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 combining activity-based recovery training with targeted spinal cord transcutaneous stimulation (scTS) to enhance the use of hands, arms, and core in individuals with chronic cervical spinal cord injuries. Participants will undergo physical evaluations, functional tests, and MRI scans to assess their condition. They will be randomized into groups receiving different intensities of training sessions that incorporate electrical stimulation to activate spinal cord pathways. The goal is to promote independence and improve quality of life without relying on assistive devices.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance motor function and independence for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have gone: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in improving motor function through activity-based training and electrical stimulation.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18 years of age. * spinal cord injury for greater than or equal to 6 months. * spinal cord injury at a cervical neurologic level of injury. Exclusion Criteria: * ventilator dependent. * history of fractures. * pressure sore or skin issues. * history of illicit drug abuse. * history of cardiac, respiratory, bladder, renal or other medical disorder unrelated to spinal cord injury. * bladder Botox injections less than 12 months prior. * muscle Botox injections less than 12 months prior. * colostomy bag or urostomy. * implanted pump (i.e., baclofen pump, pain pump, etc). * If I am female: I am pregnant at the time of enrollment or planning to become pregnant during the course of the study. * unable to wean from anti-spasticity medication. * contraindications to MRI imaging (pacemaker, metallic foreign body, aneurysm clip, etc.)
Where it's running
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Kessler Foundation
West Orange, New Jersey, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Gail F Forrest, PhD — Kessler Foundation
- Study coordinator: LeighAnn Martinez, BA
- Email: lmartinez@kesslerfoundation.org
- Phone: 973.324.3557
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation with 4-aminopyridine and intensive rehab for chronic spinal cord injury
This pilot study tests whether combining noninvasive spinal stimulation, dalfampridine, and rigorous rehab is safe and feasible for adults with chronic spinal cord injury and whether it can help improve movement and walking.
-
NG004 for incomplete cervical spinal cord injury
This trial tests NG004 versus placebo to see if it is safe and helps motor function and daily life in adults with acute incomplete cervical spinal cord injury.
-
Robot-assisted training for arm and leg movement after stroke or injury
This study tests whether adding ZEPU-AI robotic training to usual therapy is safe and helps adults with arm or leg movement problems from stroke, spinal cord injury, brain injury, or orthopedic conditions.
-
ZEPU-AI3 Lower Limb Feedback Training and Evaluation Robot in Rehab
This pilot trial tests whether adding the ZEPU-AI3 robotic leg training with real-time feedback to standard rehab helps adults with lower limb motor problems from stroke, spinal cord injury, or similar conditions.
-
Combined magnetic stimulation and ultrasound for detrusor overactivity in spinal cord injury
This study tests whether using high-frequency sacral nerve stimulation together with bladder-directed ultrasound can reduce involuntary bladder contractions and improve bladder function in people with spinal cord injury.
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Hybrid HIIT-FES cycling program for people with spinal cord injury
This study tests a hybrid exercise program that combines functional electrical stimulation cycling with voluntary arm work to improve health in adults with spinal cord injury.
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.