RecruitingPhase 2/3

Non-Invasive Neuromodulation for Upper Extremity Function in Spinal Cord Injury: A Crossover Trial

Canada10 participantsStarted 2025-05-07

Plain-language summary

This study explores two promising therapies for restoring arm and hand function in people with chronic cervical spinal cord injury (SCI), a condition that affects independence and quality of life. It will compare transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation and paired corticospinal-motoneuronal stimulation, both combined with rehabilitation. Using a crossover design, participants will receive each therapy for two months, with a one-month washout period in between. Safety, effectiveness, and patient-reported outcomes like daily living ability and quality of life will be assessed, alongside changes in neural excitability. The results of this study may enable us to tailor treatments to individual needs, promoting personalized care and improved outcomes.

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 75 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

Inclusion Criteria: * Cervical (C2-C8) level SCI * \> 9 months post-injury * Traumatic SCI * AIS A-D * Stable dose of anti-spasmodics Exclusion Criteria: * individuals with injury to the nervous system other than to the spinal cord * pregnant

Questions worth asking your doctor

Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.

1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?

Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.

Questions for the trial coordinator

The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.

1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?

A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.

What they're measuring

International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI)

Timeframe: Baseline, 2 months (end of block 1), 3 months (start of block 2), 5months (end of block 2) and 8 months (follow-up)

Graded Redefined Assessment of Strength Sensation and Performance (GRASSP)

Timeframe: Baseline, 2 months (end of block 1), 3 months (start of block 2), 5months (end of block 2) and 8 months (follow-up)

Trial details

NCT IDNCT06903416

SponsorUniversity of Alberta

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2030-03-30

Contact for this trial

Jessica M D'Amico, PhD

7802039478 damico1@ualberta.ca

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Spinal Cord Injury Cervical trials

Plain-language summary

Who can participate

Age range

18 Years – 75 Years

Sex

ALL

See this in plain English?

AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.

What they're measuring

International Standards for Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (ISNCSCI)

Timeframe: Baseline, 2 months (end of block 1), 3 months (start of block 2), 5months (end of block 2) and 8 months (follow-up)

Graded Redefined Assessment of Strength Sensation and Performance (GRASSP)

Timeframe: Baseline, 2 months (end of block 1), 3 months (start of block 2), 5months (end of block 2) and 8 months (follow-up)