This trial is enrolling individuals with chronic incomplete spinal cord injuries to test a type of brain stimulation combined with treadmill stepping (locomotor) training. The stimulation method, transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), is a non-invasive technique which uses a magnetic field to stimulate the motor cortex region of the brain. A coil held over the head delivers a magnetic stimulus that activates the brain and spinal cord. The locomotor training will utilize a body weight-support treadmill (Biodex) system. The percentage of body weight support and speed of the treadmill will be modified based on the performance of each participant. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of the two experimental groups; one receiving the repetitive TMS pulses, the other receiving a sham TMS protocol that resembles the TMS delivery but without having a therapeutic effect. In total, 12 therapeutic sessions will be performed over the course of a month. Three sessions will be done each week, 20 min for each. Behavioral and neurological assessments will be measured before, during, and at the end of the study. A final follow-up assessment will be conducted 30-days after the intervention.
Traumatic
Type
Details
12 therapeutic sessions will be performed over the time course of a month. Three sessions will be done each week, 20 min duration for each training session. Locomotor training while receiving repetitive TMS or sham-TMS pulses at the head. Non-invasive assessment sessions before, after 6 sessions, after 12 sessions and 1 month after the intervention.
Main benefits
Standing/walking/mobility
Additional benefits
Arm/hand function
General health
Mental health and psychosocial factors
Sensory function
Spasticity
Good to know: Potential benefits are defined as outcomes that are being measured during and/or after the trial.
Wings for Life has proudly initiated, led and funded the new version of the SCI Trials Finder website. Wings for Life aims to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. The not-for-profit foundation funds world-class scientific research and clinical trials around the globe.
Learn moreWings for Life has proudly initiated, led and funded the new version of the SCI Trials Finder website. Wings for Life aims to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. The not-for-profit foundation funds world-class scientific research and clinical trials around the globe.
Learn more