Paired brain and spinal cord stimulation for arm and hand function after cervical SCI

Background

For people with cervical SCI, regaining hand function is their highest priority. We are testing different combinations of magnetic and electrical brain and spinal cord stimulation to better understand how to reconnect nerve circuits for improving hand function. To stimulate the brain, we use transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS). To stimulate the spinal cord, we will compare “direct-current stimulation” to “Russian frequency stimulation”. All of these methods are non-invasive.

Note: This is a research study testing for temporary changes in nerve transmission and hand function. There is no expectation of long-term benefit from this study. Any temporary changes seen in this study will be implemented in future studies attempting to prolong that effect.

Brain Stimulation with Neuronavigation
Eligibility Criteria (summary)
  • Age 18-75 yo with chronic cervical SCI, occurred greater than 12 months ago
  • No history of severe traumatic brain injury (TBI), stroke, multiple sclerosis, Parkinson’s disease, or epilepsy
  • Other eligibility criteria will be screened in person to make sure it is safe for you to participate
Procedures

6 visits lasting 3-4 hours each.
If you are an SCI participant, the first visit will be a screening visit to determine your eligibility.

What should you know
  • Electrical and magnetic stimulation can feel like a ‘shock’ that is temporarily uncomfortable at higher pulse strength
  • The main risk of magnetic brain stimulation is seizure. BUT:
    • Seizures are riskier when pulses are given faster than once per second – in this study, pulses are never given more than once every 5 or 10 seconds;
    • The exclusion criteria are designed to prevent anyone at risk of seizure from participating.
    • When performed according to these recommendations, the risk of seizure is less than 1 in 1,000.
  • If you are uncomfortable at any time for any reason, we can stop the procedures. There is no obligation!!

Investigator
Lynda M. Murray, PhD

Study ID
HAR-19-57

Contact
Astrea Villarroel-Sanchez and Lauren Kinne

Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
NCT04727866