By InvitationNot Applicable

Noninvasive Spinal Stimulation to Restore Hand Function in Children With Spinal Cord Injury

United States10 participantsStarted 2025-06-13

Plain-language summary

The main goal of this pilot study is to find the best ways to use transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (scTS) to improve hand function in children with spinal cord injuries (SCI). The investigators will start by exploring the best places and strengths for applying scTS on the neck, the added benefits of applying scTS on the lower back (T11-T12), and comparing the effects of using activity based upper extremity training (a control treatment) alone versus combining it with scTS to help children with chronic SCI regain hand function.

Who can participate

Age range7 Years – 12 Years

SexALL

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Inclusion criteria

✓. age 7-12 years;
✓. chronic (\>6 months), acquired upper motor neuron SCI;
✓. cervical SCI at or above C8 neurological level with motor score of 1-3 for finger flexors
✓. Pediatric Neurorecovery scale score of ≥2B and ≤ 4C for impaired grip
✓. complete aim 1 and 2;
✓. consent/assent for aim 3
✓. demonstrate a minimum of 10% increase in HG force with scTS (aim1-2)
✓. confirmed volitional activation in hand muscles during hang grip assessment without scTS

Exclusion criteria

✕. Botox use within past 3 months (for upper or lower extremity);
✕. current oral baclofen (or pump);
✕. musculoskeletal impairment limiting range of motion;
✕. unhealed fracture or other medical condition limiting participation in AB-UET;
✕. etiology of spina bifida;
✕. total ventilator dependence.

What they're measuring

Hand grip

Timeframe: 12 weeks

Hand control

Timeframe: 12 weeks

Trial details

NCT IDNCT06489106

SponsorUniversity of Louisville

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2026-07-31

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Spinal Cord Injury Cervical trials