Electrical neuromodulation for modifying the spinal network involved in spasticity
Key Information
This study examines whether electrical stimulation can reduce muscle stiffness and spasms in people with spinal cord injury. For this, we will place stimulation pads on the lower back and belly to activate nerves near the spinal cord. This type of electrical stimulation is known as transcutaneous spinal stimulation and has no severe side effects. However, the continuous stimulation for 30 minutes may be uncomfortable, in which case we will stop the stimulation.
You will be asked to come to the Methodist Rehabilitation Center four times over three weeks. A visit will take about 2 or 4 hours to complete the tests with or without electrical stimulation. You will be asked to take a single dose of an antispastic drug or placebo to compare the effect of electrical stimulation to routine treatments. The results will indicate the degree to which transcutaneous spinal stimulation effects are clinically meaningful.
Eligibility Criteria
- Age 18 years or older
- History of spinal cord injury (ASIA Impairment Scale grades A-D)
- Time since injury longer than six months
- The presence of at least mild spasticity
More information
Contact Jennifer Sivak, OTR/L
Research Occupational Therapist
Phone: (601) 364-3567
Email: jsivak@mmrcrehab.org.
Funding
Mississippi Center for Clinical and Translational Research, NIH