Using electrostimulation-assisted rowing to improve fitness in adults with spinal cord injuries

Effects of Training on a Rower Assisted by Electrostimulation of Lower Limbs in Patients With Neurological Disorders (FES-ROW)

Not applicable Interventional UGECAM Rhône-Alpes · NCT04821635

This study is testing if a special rowing machine that helps move the legs can improve fitness and heart health in adults with spinal cord injuries over six months.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment35 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUGECAM Rhône-Alpes Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Lyon, Rhône and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT04821635 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This project aims to enhance aerobic physical and metabolic capacities in adults with traumatic paraplegia through a 6-month training program on a rowing machine that utilizes functional electrical stimulation (FES) for the lower limbs. The study is divided into two phases: the first phase focuses on lower limb stimulation only, while the second phase incorporates both lower and upper limb stimulation. Participants will engage in three 30-minute sessions per week, with evaluations measuring maximum oxygen consumption and other muscle and neurological parameters. The goal is to address the increased cardiovascular risks faced by this population due to inactivity.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults with traumatic paraplegia who have a stable spinal cord injury and meet specific inclusion criteria.

Not a fit: Patients with other neurological conditions or significant physical limitations that prevent participation in the rowing exercise may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve cardiovascular health and overall fitness in individuals with spinal cord injuries.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in using electrostimulation for rehabilitation in spinal cord injury patients.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Paraplegia with traumatic origin
* Spinal cord injury AIS (ASIA Impairment Scale) score A and B at least 12 months old
* Patient having given written consent
* Patient with social security scheme
* Ability to obtain a leg extension with a 30-minute electrostimulation program

Exclusion Criteria:

* Protected adults (person in guardianship, curators or legal protection)
* Presence of contraindication criteria to carrying out a stress test or sustained physical activity decided by the doctor following the person with spinal cord injury.
* Drug treatment with cardiovascular or antidepressant effect
* Pressure sore
* Other associated neurological pathologies (stroke, peripheral neuropathy, myopathy, head trauma, ...)
* Affection of the shoulders of any etiology that could compromise the ability to use the rower.
* Spasticity of the lower limbs: Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) greater than or equal to 2/4 (specifically quadriceps / Hamstrings)
* Participation in another study

Where this trial is running

Lyon, Rhône and 1 other locations

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. 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 InjuriesSpinal Cord InjuryFunctional Electrical StimulationCardiovascular PreventionNeuroplasticityRehabilitation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.