NCT07607665 · Columbia University
Spinal Cord Associative Plasticity in Cerebral Palsy
(SCAP-CP)
What this study is about
Associative plasticity has been used to promote functional recovery from conditions affecting movement. The long term goal of this project is to use electrical stimulation techniques to improve treatment group$1 and hand function.
View original scientific description
Associative plasticity has been used to promote functional recovery from conditions affecting movement. The long term goal of this project is to use electrical stimulation techniques to improve arm and hand function. The goal of this prospective experimental study in adults with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (hCP) is to test the effects of pairing hand motor cortical and median nerve stimulation targeted to induce plasticity in the cervical spinal cord. Based on preliminary data in neurotypical adults, the investigators are testing the effects of this approach in adults with hCP. This study will first verify the present stimulation parameters as sufficient to promote induction of associative plasticity of sensorimotor connections for manual dexterity in adults with hCP. This will be assessed through neurophysiological, biomechanical, and clinical functional outcome measures. Successful pairing showing meaningful improvements in dexterity could then be used as an impetus for a larger study examining the efficacy of SCAP in people with hCP.
Interventions
DEVICE
Paired brain and nerve stimulation
This utilizes pairing of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and peripheral nerve stimulation (rPNS) timed to converge in the cervical spinal cord.
Primary outcome measures
Size of muscle response to brain stimulation after intervention (percentage)
Time frame: 30 minutes after intervention
Size of muscle response will be measured in response to brain stimulation. This value will be normalized to the equivalent measure taken before the SCAP protocol.
Number of blocks moved during box and blocks testing (BBT) after intervention
Time frame: 30 minutes after intervention
Number of blocks moved during box and blocks testing will be measured after SCAP protocol. This value will be normalized to the equivalent measure taken before the SCAP protocol.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Maintenance of caffeine and exercise levels at time of sessions
- Ability to provide informed consent
- Manual ability classification system (MACS) level I to III
Exclusion criteria
- History of seizures in last two years
- Use of medications that lower seizure threshold
- History of implanted equipment including stimulators/pacemakers
Where
- New York, New York
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced May 28, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations