Harnessing Neuroplasticity of Postural Sensorimotor Networks Using Non-Invasive Spinal Neuromodulation to Maximize Functional Recovery After Spinal Cord Injury
Eligible age
22–75 yrs
Accepts
All genders
Locations
1 state
Healthy volunteers
No
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About this study
It has been demonstrated that the human lumbosacral spinal cord can be neuromodulated with epidural (ESS) and transcutaneous (TSS) spinal cord stimulation to enable recovery of standing and volitional control of the lower limbs after complete motor paralysis due to spinal cord injury (SCI). The work proposed herein will examine and identify distinct electrophysiological mechanisms underlying transcutaneous spinal stimulation (TSS) and epidural spinal stimulation (ESS) to define how these approaches determine the ability to maintain self-assisted standing after SCI.
Sponsor: The Methodist Hospital Research Institute
You may qualify if…
- ✓ 1. All participants must be able to provide a provision of a signed and dated informed consent form.
- ✓ 2. Stated willingness to comply with all study procedures and availability for the duration of the study.
- ✓ 3. Male or female, aged 22-75 years old.
- ✓ 4. Documentation from the participant's primary treating physician confirming a stable medical condition.
- ✓ 5. Inability to maintain standing independently without external support due to SCI AIS A-C.
- ✓ 6. Ability to tolerate at least 15 minutes in an upright (supported) position.
- ✓ 7. Able to self-transfer from the wheelchair and demonstrate active range of motion of bilateral upper extremities in gravity dependent plane.
- ✓ 8. Able to passively range bilateral lower extremities within normal mobility parameters including:
You may not qualify if…
- ✕ 1. Ability to maintain standing independently without external support.
- ✕ 2. Currently involved in another rehabilitation training of the lower extremities.
- ✕ 3. Active pressure sores, unhealed bone fractures, peripheral neuropathies, or painful musculoskeletal dysfunction (including but not limited to contractures in the upper and lower extremities).
- ✕ 4. Any ongoing medical condition which would preclude participant from regular physical activity (including but not limited to: cardiopulmonary disease, uncontrollable autonomic dysreflexia or orthostatic hypotension, active urinary tract infections, pregnant or nursing).
- ✕ 5. Intrathecal baclofen pump therapy for spasticity not compatible with 3T MRI.
- ✕ 6. Must not have received Botox injections to primary lower extremity and trunk musculature within the past 3 months, resulting in absence of muscle tone and precluding response to electrical stimulation therapy.
- ✕ 7. Current or history of neuromuscular conditions (including but not limited to: unhealed ligament of muscular tears in the upper or lower extremities, pain in weight bearing positions for upper and lower extremities).
- ✕ 8. Clinically significant depression, psychiatric disorders, or ongoing drug abuse, including heavy alcohol use.
Where it's recruiting
Houston
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT06213012 · last updated 2026-03-30