RecruitingNot Applicable

Spasticity in SCI Following Acute Intermittent Hypoxia

United States10 participantsStarted 2026-03-17

Plain-language summary

This study aims to observe the effects of administration of a breathing intervention (Acute Intermittent Hypoxia (AIH)) on spasticity (tightness) in individuals with incomplete Spinal Cord Injury. It is hypothesized that hypoxia will decrease the reflex threshold of the biceps brachii, indicating an increase in spasticity following the AIH.

Who can participate

Age range

18 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: * Age \>= 18 * Non-progressive spinal Cord injury at least 6 months prior * Level of injury between C1-C8 * ISNCSCI ASIA classification C or D * Measurable Spasticity Exclusion Criteria: * Pre-existing hypoxic pulmonary disease * Positive Covid-Pneumonia diagnosis within 1 year of visit * Uncontrolled hypertension \>140/90 mmHg * Individuals who are currently pregnant/nursing or planning on becoming pregnant * Individuals with a tracheostomy or who utilize mechanical ventilation * A botulinum toxin injection to upper extremity musculature within the past 3 months * Currently taking Baclofen * Congestive Heart Failure * Cardiac arrhythmias * Uncontrolled diabetes mellitus * Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease * Emphysema * Severe Asthma * Previous myocardial infarction * Carotid/intracerebral artery stenosis * Orthopedic injuries or surgeries that impact the ability to use the upper extremity * History of Epilepsy

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

Change in reflex indentation threshold

Timeframe: Day 1 of Intervention

Trial details

NCT IDNCT07583498

SponsorZev Rymer

Sponsor typeOTHER

Study typeINTERVENTIONAL

Primary completion2027-03

Contact for this trial

William Z Rymer, MD, PhD

312-238-3919 w-rymer@northwestern.edu

View on ClinicalTrials.gov More Spinal Cord Injuries (SCI) trials