Using non-invasive spinal stimulation to improve ankle movement in spinal cord injury patients
Effect of tSCS on Ankle Movement Training - Evidence From Spinal Circuitry Adaptation in Individuals With SCI
This study is testing if a new non-invasive spinal stimulation method can help improve ankle movement in people with spinal cord injuries during training.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Chang Gung University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Taoyuan) |
| Trial ID | NCT06596174 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effectiveness of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) in enhancing spinal circuitry adaptation for individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). The study aims to determine the optimal parameters for tSCS and its priming effect during machine-assisted ankle movement training. It will evaluate both short-term and long-term clinical outcomes of combining tSCS with ankle movement training in participants with incomplete SCI, as well as healthy individuals. This approach seeks to provide a non-invasive alternative to traditional epidural spinal cord stimulation, which has limitations due to surgical requirements.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with chronic spinal cord injuries lasting more than one year and healthy participants without lower limb injuries.
Not a fit: Patients with current musculoskeletal injuries, neuromuscular diseases, or those on specific medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation techniques for individuals with spinal cord injuries, enhancing their mobility and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While tSCS has not been extensively studied in large human trials, similar approaches with epidural stimulation have shown functional benefits.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Health subjects: Exclusion Criteria: 1. Musculoskeletal injuries on legs. 2. Osteoporosis. SCI subjects: Inclusion Criteria 1\. Participants with chronic spinal cord injury, with injury duration greater than one year. Exclusion Criteria 1. Current musculoskeletal or joint injuries in the lower limbs. 2. History of central or peripheral neuromuscular diseases. 3. Presence of a pacemaker. 4. Current use of antispastic or antidepressant medications. 5. Current venous thromboembolism or osteoporosis. 6. Impairment of the soleus H-reflex arc.
Where this trial is running
Taoyuan
- Chang Gung University — Taoyuan, Taiwan (Recruiting)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.