Effects of Breathing Mild Bouts of Low Oxygen on Limb Mobility After Spinal Injury
Eligible age
18–75 yrs
Accepts
All genders
Locations
1 state
Healthy volunteers
Yes
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About this study
Accumulating evidence suggests that repeatedly breathing low oxygen levels for brief periods (termed intermittent hypoxia) is a safe and effective treatment strategy to promote meaningful functional recovery in persons with chronic spinal cord injury (SCI). The goal of the study is to understand the mechanisms by which intermittent hypoxia enhances motor function and spinal plasticity (ability of the nervous system to strengthen neural pathways based on new experiences) following SCI.
Sponsor: Spaulding Rehabilitation Hospital
You may qualify if…
- ✓ Age 18 and 75 years (the latter to reduce likelihood of heart disease)
- ✓ Medical clearance to participate
- ✓ Lesion at or below C2 and above T12 with non-progressive etiology
- ✓ Classified as motor-incomplete with visible volitional leg movement
- ✓ Injury greater than 1 year
You may not qualify if…
- ✕ Concurrent severe medical illness (i.e., infection, cardiovascular disease, ossification, recurrent autonomic dysreflexia, unhealed decubiti, and history of pulmonary complications)
- ✕ Pregnant women because of the unknown affects of AIH on pregnant women and fetus
- ✕ History of seizures, brain injury, and/or epilepsy
- ✕ Undergoing concurrent physical therapy
- ✕ Diabetes
- ✕ Cirrhosis
- ✕ Caffeine and/or NSAID allergies or intolerances
Where it's recruiting
Cambridge
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT02323945 · last updated 2026-03-20