Transcutaneous Spinal Stimulation to Boost Exercise in 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 randomized trial tests the effect of transcutaneous spinal electrical stimulation (TSES) on acute exercise responses in adults with spinal cord injury. Participants perform incremental and steady-state exercise tests while metabolic and muscle responses are measured. The study compares responses within individuals and between those with tetraplegia and paraplegia, using a reference control group for context. Outcomes include metabolic energy use, muscle activity, and oxygen delivery to evaluate whether TSES enhances training potential and functional exercise capacity.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* traumatic or non-traumatic spinal cord injury
* Spinal cord injury of at least one year duration, C5 or lower, AIS A - D
* medically stable and healthy enough to engage in and complete exercise requirements
* willing and able to complete the exercise protocols and testing requirements
* able to understand and follow written and verbal instructions from study staff
* able to communicate with study staff about their exercise capabilities and preferences

Exclusion Criteria:

* current serious injury (ies) of the upper extremities
* known cardiovascular disease
* unsatisfactory results of EKG screening
* implanted electronic cardiac devices (e.g., pacemaker, defibrillator, etc.)
* current pressure ulcer(s)
* morbid obesity
* known thyroid dysfunction
* current cancer
* current uncontrolled high blood pressure
* uncontrolled epilepsy
* current deep vein thrombosis
* ventilator dependency
* cognitive impairment

Where it's running

• University of Manitoba
  Winnipeg, Manitoba, Canada Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Kristine Cowley, Phd — University of Manitoba
• Study coordinator: Kristine C Cowley, PhD
• Email: kristine.cowley@umanitoba.ca
• Phone: +1 204-789-3305

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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.