The purpose of this research study is to develop a valid and reliable interview and online versions of the International Standards for the Neurological Classification of Spinal Cord Injury (I- and O-ISNCSCI) questionnaires that can be used when it is not possible to complete a standard in-person ISNCSCI. The ISNCSCI is used to determine the severity of a spinal cord injury by testing muscle strength and a person’s ability to feel touch. One situation the interview and online versions can be used is during a telehealth visit where no actual hands-on examination is possible. The interview and online versions are not meant to replace the standard in-person ISNCSCI, but to use it in situations where the in-person version is not possible.

The study has two parts: [1] finetuning the questions and other materials to be used in the interview and the online version, and [2] comparing the results of either one with those of a second administration, and with those of the in-person administration. You can take part in Part 1 only, part 2 only, or in both. We will finish the Part 1 of the study first and then conduct the Part 2 of the study:

1. If you participate in Part 1, you will be asked to complete either the interview or the online version of the I-ISNCSCI. Both have visual aids, and clinicians or researchers will administer the questions to or with you during a virtual contact (phone or video or online conference) or in-person interview. You will also be asked to answer questions related to your understanding of the questions in the interview or online version, and the reasons you selected certain answers. The whole process may take up to 2 hours.

2. If you participate in Part 2, you will complete either the interview version or the online version twice, and then make a clinic visit at the Mount Sinai Hospital or Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation (study sites) to receive the in-person ISNCSCI examination. Either Part 1 or Part 2 of the study takes you about 2 hours in total to complete. Your participation in the study (or decision not to become a participant) will not affect the care you will receive from Mount Sinai.

If you agree to take part in Part 1 of this research study, we will pay you $200 via check or money order for your time and effort at the end of your participation in the study. If you agree to take part in Part 2 of this research study, we will pay you $250 via check or money order for your time and effort at the end of your participation in the study.

 If interested in learning more about this research study complete this FORM and we will contact you.

Or contact us at:

 Arianny Ramirez – arianny.ramirez@mountsinai.org | 332-215-2959

Laiba Afzal – laiba.afzal2@mountsinai.org| 332-215-2939

Thomas Bryce, MD is the principal investigator of this project.