Using mild intermittent hypoxia to prevent autonomic dysfunction in spinal cord injury patients

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 investigates the effectiveness of mild intermittent hypoxia (MIH) as a preventive measure for autonomic dysfunction in individuals with spinal cord injuries (SCI). Patients with SCI above the 6th thoracic vertebrae often experience severe autonomic dysfunction, leading to conditions like autonomic dysreflexia and orthostatic hypotension. The study aims to determine if exposure to MIH can restore blood pressure control and improve overall health outcomes for these patients. Participants will be monitored for changes in autonomic function and related health metrics during the intervention.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Motor incomplete spinal cord injury at or above the 12th thoracic vertebrae
* Signs or symptoms of autonomic dysfunction (this will be determined by the Autonomic Dysfunction Following Spinal Cord Injury (ADFSCI) and ISAFSCI questions. The ADFSCI requires a score of 1 on questions 16 and 22, and the International Standards to document Autonomic Function following SCI (ISAFSCI) requires a score of 1 on any parameter)
* Chronic injuries (\>1 year post injury)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Pregnant
* Smoker
* Drug addiction
* Complete spinal cord injury
* Spinal cord injury below the 6th thoracic vertebrae
* Insulin dependent diabetes
* Shift workers (i.e., disrupted circadian rhythm)
* Active skin breakdown or pressure sores

Where it's running

• John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, Detroit, MI
  Detroit, Michigan, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Gino Panza, PhD — John D. Dingell VA Medical Center, Detroit, MI
• Study coordinator: Gino Panza, PhD
• Email: Gino.Panza@va.gov
• Phone: (313) 576-1000

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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.