NCT07397559 · Washington University School of Medicine
Spatiotemporal tSCS in Spinal Cord Injury
What this study is about
Spinal cord injury leads to long-lasting impairment, and currently, there is no cure for paralysis. Although transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation has shown promising results in recovering lost movements, its poor selectivity in muscle recruitment compared to invasive approaches limits the type of rehabilitation exercises that can be practiced.
View original scientific description
Spinal cord injury leads to long-lasting impairment, and currently, there is no cure for paralysis. Although transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation has shown promising results in recovering lost movements, its poor selectivity in muscle recruitment compared to invasive approaches limits the type of rehabilitation exercises that can be practiced. This project studies how spatial, frequency, and amplitude control of stimulation can be used to selectively target different neural pathways and muscle groups.
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
- Age between 16 and 65 years.
- Have a spinal cord injury (neurological level C3-T12) that occurred ≥1 year (chronic stage) prior to enrollment.
- American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) Impairment Scale (AIS) classification C or D
- Able to voluntarily contract (motor score ≥ 1) at least two leg muscles (visual or palpable contraction).
- Use of prescription medication(s) for control of spasticity has not changed in the last 2 weeks
- Able to provide consent
- Ability to follow multiple instructions and communicate pain or discomfort
Exclusion criteria
- Progressive spinal lesions, including degenerative disorders of the spinal cord
- Pregnant, planning to become pregnant, or currently breastfeeding
- History of cardiopulmonary disease or cardiac symptoms
- Implanted stimulators of any type (baclofen pump, epidural spinal stimulator, cardiac defibrillator, pace-maker, etc.)
- Presence of orthopedic conditions that would negatively affect participation in leg exercise
- History of autonomic dysreflexia that is severe, unstable, and/or uncontrolled
- Unstable or significant medical conditions that can interfere with exercise or neurophysiological evaluations, such as severe neuropathic pain, depression, mood disorders, or other cognitive disorders
- Spasms that limit the ability to participate in leg exercise activity
- Breakdown in skin area that will be in contact with electrodes
Where
- St Louis, Missouri
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 Feb 12, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations