NCT06841198 · Kessler Foundation
Cardiovascular Function and Response to Stimulation Within the First Year After Spinal Cord Injury
What this study is about
The study aims to explore how cardiovascular function changes in the first year after a spinal cord injury, and to see how different treatments, like spinal stimulation through the skin (transcutaneous spinal stimulation), affect blood pressure.
View original scientific description
The study aims to explore how cardiovascular function changes in the first year after a spinal cord injury, and to see how different treatments, like spinal stimulation through the skin (transcutaneous spinal stimulation), affect blood pressure. The main questions are: How does stimulation affect blood pressure over the year? What is the level of cardiovascular activation throughout the year? The study will start during the inpatient stay at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation and continue after discharge as an outpatient, totaling about 20-29 sessions over the year.
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
- Individuals with a spinal cord injury undergoing inpatient rehabilitation at the Kessler Institute for Rehabilitation
- Between 18-75 years old
- 7-50 days after injury
- Injury level ≥ T6 (a cervical or a high-level chest injury)
- Individuals experiencing low blood pressure after the injury
- American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) A or B
Exclusion criteria
- A ventilator is needed for breathing.
- Devices such as brain/spine/nerve stimulators, a cardiac pacemaker/defibrillator, or intra-cardiac lines are present in the body.
- There is a significant disease affecting the blood vessels or signals in the heart, or a recent heart attack (myocardial infarction) has occurred.
- A new medication has been prescribed to treat blood pressure or a heart problem within the last five days (excluding midodrine).
- There is a known infection in the body (e.g., urinary tract infection) or a current illness (e.g., recent diagnosis of deep vein thrombosis (DVT) or other blood clotting issues, and/or a pressure injury that might interfere with the study).
- There is a history of seizures.
- Pregnancy. For the spin-off study ice-water vs ice-wrap test (see description in study arms): \_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_\_ Inclusion: Age 18-75. Inclusion for individuals with SCI:
- Injury sustained more than 6 months ago
- Injury level ≥ T6 (a cervical or a high-level chest injury)
- American spinal injury association impairment scale (AIS) A - D Exclusion: Foot lesions, uses a ventilator, devices such as brain/spine/nerve stimulators, significant or recent cardiovascular disease, known infection in the body
Where
- West Orange, New Jersey
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 Jul 1, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations