SPINAL CORD INJURY

This trial tests a fully implantable brain-computer interface (BCI) in one person with a severe spinal cord injury (C1-C4). The device reads brain signals to control digital devices like computers or tablets. Researchers will visit the participant at home 1-3 times per week for a…

This pilot study is testing whether galantamine, a drug already approved for Alzheimer's disease, can safely reduce inflammation and treat metabolic syndrome in people with chronic spinal cord injury. The study will enroll 60 adults who use wheelchairs and have obesity-related wa…

This study tests whether a drug called 4-AP, taken twice daily, can boost recovery of leg movement in people with spinal cord injury. Participants also receive a type of brain stimulation and leg training. The goal is to improve walking and muscle strength. The study involves 27 …

This early-stage trial tests whether deep brain stimulation (DBS) of a brain region called the mesencephalic locomotor region can improve walking in people with incomplete spinal cord injury. Five participants will receive a DBS implant and be followed for safety and walking abil…

This study is testing whether nerve transfer surgery can help people with cervical spinal cord injury regain hand function. Forty participants who have already chosen to have the surgery will be followed for two years, with regular tests of hand strength, sensation, and movement.…

This study is testing a wireless brain implant that lets people with severe spinal cord injuries control external devices just by thinking. The device is placed in the brain with a small surgery. Researchers will check how well participants can perform tasks using only their brai…

This study tests a brain implant that records activity from the motor cortex and stimulates the sensory cortex. It aims to help people with severe arm or hand impairment—due to spinal cord injury, stroke, or amputation—control external devices like computers. The trial focuses on…

This early study tests whether combining electrical stimulation cycling with blood flow restriction cuffs is safe and doable for people with chronic spinal cord injury. Six adults will try the 20-minute exercise sessions over 6 weeks. The goal is to see if this approach can be us…

This early study is testing a device called ARC-IM Therapy, which delivers electrical impulses to the lower spinal cord, to see if it can help people with spinal cord injury regain the ability to walk. The trial will include 12 adults with recent or long-term injuries. The main g…

This study tests whether an implanted spinal cord stimulator can improve autonomic functions like blood pressure and heart rate in people with chronic cervical spinal cord injury. The device delivers electrical pulses to the spinal cord to help regulate involuntary body processes…

This study tests whether freezing specific nerves (cryoneurolysis) can reduce shoulder pain and improve movement in people with spasticity from conditions like stroke or brain injury. Fifty adults will either receive one session of nerve freezing or one session of Botox injection…

This pilot study tests whether adding transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) to robotic gait training (RGT) can improve trunk control and walking in people with chronic spinal cord injury. Twelve participants will first receive RGT alone, then RGT plus tSCS, and their prog…

This study tests a new device called SSMD to help people with arm weakness after a stroke or traumatic brain injury. About 150 adults will use the device in supervised sessions over 5-6 weeks. The goal is to see if it improves arm movement better than standard electrical stimulat…

This early-stage trial tests a new device designed to deliver OPC1 cells directly into the spinal cord of people with traumatic spinal cord injuries. The study will enroll 10 participants with either recent or chronic injuries. The main goal is to see if the device and injection …

This study is testing a personal exoskeleton that lets people with spinal cord injury walk hands-free and stay balanced on their own. Twelve participants with injuries at or above the T6 level will train with the device over several sessions. The goal is to see if the exoskeleton…

This study tests whether a wearable robotic exoskeleton helps people with recent spinal cord injury regain walking ability better than standard physical therapy. Eighty participants will be randomly assigned to either robot-assisted or conventional gait training for 8 weeks. Rese…

This study tests whether a non-invasive device that sends small electrical pulses to the spine, combined with repetitive hand and arm exercises, can improve movement in people with chronic tetraplegia from a cervical spinal cord injury. Researchers will measure changes in muscle …

This early-stage study tests a new treatment called XS228, made from special stem cells that can become nerve cells. The goal is to see if injecting these cells into the spine is safe and tolerable for people who had a spinal cord injury 2 to 8 weeks ago. Up to 12 adults with inj…

This study tests whether short, controlled sessions of breathing lower oxygen (called low oxygen therapy) can help stabilize 24-hour blood pressure in people with chronic cervical spinal cord injury. Ten participants will undergo 4 days of treatment, with blood pressure and heart…

This study is testing a surgically implanted device that uses small electrical currents to stimulate nerves and muscles in the trunk and hips. The goal is to help people with spinal cord injury improve their seated posture, balance, breathing, reaching, and ability to push a whee…

This study tests an implanted device that sends electrical pulses to the spinal cord to help people with spinal cord injury regain walking ability and reduce pain. Twelve adults with chronic spinal cord injury will receive the implant and then undergo physical therapy. The goal i…

This study compares two treatments for arm spasticity (stiff, tight muscles) caused by stroke, spinal cord injury, or brain injury. Thirty adults will first receive Botox injections, then undergo tendon-lengthening surgery a few months later. Researchers will measure how well eac…

This study tests whether adding Hunova® robotic rehabilitation to standard therapy improves trunk control in people with spinal cord injuries. 78 participants will receive either standard rehab alone or standard rehab plus Hunova® sessions. The goal is to see if the robotic devic…

This study tests whether gentle electrical stimulation of nerves in the leg or lower back can prevent the bladder from becoming overactive after a spinal cord injury. Researchers will compare two types of nerve stimulation against standard care in 45 adults who had a spinal injur…

This study tests a decision support tool called CAPP-FIT to help prevent pressure injuries in people with spinal cord injury. About 808 veterans from 7 VA clinics will use a survey to identify risks, and providers get a report with recommended actions. The goal is to see if the t…

This study tests three approaches—oxygen therapy, the drug trazodone, and brief low-oxygen episodes—to see if they can improve sleep apnea in people with chronic cervical spinal cord injury. Researchers will measure changes in breathing and sleep quality in 100 participants. The …

This pilot study tests a wearable device called MedRhythms that uses shoe sensors and headphones to deliver real-time rhythmic cues (like a musical beat) to help people with incomplete spinal cord injury improve their walking. Fifteen participants will use the device during super…

This study tests a live, group tele-exercise program (TEEMS) for people with spinal cord injury. Researchers want to see if it improves exercise confidence, physical activity, and quality of life compared to watching pre-recorded exercise videos. The program is fully virtual to m…

This study is testing a wearable robotic exoskeleton called ABLE Daily to see if it is safe and works well for helping people with spinal cord injury walk in their home and community. Ten participants will train with the device at a clinic for three weeks, then use it on their ow…

This small study tests whether a gentle, non-invasive brain stimulation technique called tACS can reduce nerve pain in people with spinal cord injury. Fourteen participants will receive either real or sham stimulation for 20 minutes. Researchers will measure pain levels and heart…

This study tests whether giving calcitonin early after a spinal cord injury can lower the chance or severity of nerve pain. About 126 adults with a recent spinal injury will receive either calcitonin or a placebo. Researchers will track pain levels and side effects for up to a ye…

This study tests whether a 12-week pelvic floor muscle training program is practical and helpful for people with motor-incomplete spinal cord injury. Thirty participants will do exercises five times a week. Researchers will track how many people join, stick with the program, and …

This study tests whether psilocybin (the active ingredient in magic mushrooms) is safe and tolerable for veterans with spinal cord injury who also have depression. Thirty participants will receive low, medium, or high doses and be monitored for side effects like pain, muscle spas…

This pilot study is testing a special capsule that vibrates as it moves through the digestive system. The goal is to see if it is safe and helpful for people with spinal cord injuries who have bowel problems. Only 12 participants will be enrolled to check safety and how well they…

This study tests if a non-invasive spinal cord stimulation can improve blood pressure control in people with chronic spinal cord injury. Researchers will place electrodes on the skin over the spinal cord and stimulate different sites to see which works best. The goal is to help p…

This study is testing a robotic lower-limb exoskeleton combined with functional electrical stimulation (FES) to help people with conditions like spinal cord injury, brain injury, or multiple sclerosis improve their walking. The device provides robotic support and electrical stimu…

This study tests whether a noninvasive brain stimulation method, combined with hand exercises, can improve grasping ability in people with chronic spinal cord injury. About 54 adults with neck-level injuries will receive either real or sham stimulation during training sessions. T…

This study tests whether using mild electrical pulses in the rectum can help people with spinal cord injury empty their bowels more quickly. Many with spinal cord injury have slow bowel movements and rely on a finger to stretch the rectum. The trial compares the usual method with…

This study tests whether daily treatments with slightly elevated carbon dioxide (hypercapnia) can improve breathing and reduce sleep apnea in Veterans with spinal cord injury. About 30 adults with chronic spinal cord injury or able-bodied people with sleep apnea will receive the …

This early study tests whether a 10-week brain stimulation and feedback training program can strengthen the connection between the brain and wrist muscles in people with chronic cervical spinal cord injury. Eleven adults with weak wrist extension will receive non-invasive brain s…

This pilot study tests whether focused shockwave therapy can safely reduce arm spasticity in people with spinal cord injury. Twelve participants will receive three weekly sessions of sound waves applied to the forearm and elbow muscles. Researchers will measure changes in muscle …

This early-stage study is checking if insulin nasal spray is safe for people with spinal cord injury. Up to 12 adults who had an injury at least 4 months ago will use the spray or a placebo daily for up to 24 days. Researchers will monitor side effects and see if virtual training…

This early study tests whether a device that sends electrical pulses to muscles and the spinal cord can improve arm, hand, or leg movement in people with paralysis from spinal cord injury, stroke, or other nerve damage. Up to 64 participants will attend sessions five times a week…

This study tests whether cannabidiol (CBD), a compound from cannabis, can reduce urinary incontinence in people with recent spinal cord injury. Twenty adults with at least two leaks per day will take a purified CBD drug (Epidiolex) twice daily for 90 days. The main goal is to see…

This study explores whether a virtual reality version of a mindfulness program called VA CALM can help veterans with spinal cord injuries manage chronic pain. Ten veterans will try the program, and researchers will see if it's practical and acceptable. The goal is to make mindful…

This study is testing a wearable robotic exoskeleton that stretches the legs of people with spasticity caused by spinal cord injury. The device aims to mimic the stretching done by nurses or caregivers. Ten veterans will try the device during leg stretching, treadmill walking, an…

This study tests whether magnetic pulses to the brain (TMS) can ease nerve pain that won't go away with standard drugs in people with spinal cord injury. 39 adults with pain for at least 6 months will receive either real or sham TMS to the motor cortex or the anterior cingulate c…

This study tests whether electromagnetic stimulation can safely improve bladder function in people with spinal cord injury. Researchers will enroll 24 men with complete motor paralysis who have used catheters for at least a year. Participants will receive non-invasive stimulation…

This study is testing whether adding a mild electrical stimulation to the lower back can boost the benefits of a robotic exoskeleton for people with chronic spinal cord injury. Twenty-four participants who cannot walk will receive either exoskeleton training alone or combined wit…

This pilot study compares a nerve-freezing technique called cryoneurolysis to standard Botox injections for treating pain and stiffness caused by spasticity in people with brain or spinal cord injuries, multiple sclerosis, or stroke. Fifty adults will be randomly assigned to rece…

This study tests a mobile health app called iMHere 2.0 designed to help veterans with spinal cord injury and their family caregivers manage stress and improve well-being. Researchers will work with 100 participants to gather feedback and tailor the app to their needs. The goal is…

This study tests whether a non-invasive spinal cord stimulation device can improve autonomic functions like blood pressure, bladder, bowel, and sexual control in people with chronic spinal cord injury. Thirty participants will receive targeted stimulation over several weeks. The …

This study tests whether using a small electrical stimulation device on the skin near the genitals can help people with spinal cord injury control bowel accidents. Twelve participants will use the device at home for 6-8 hours daily over 4 weeks. The goal is to see if this approac…

This study tests whether ankle braces made with 3D scanning and printing work as well as those made the old-fashioned way with plaster casts. About 50 people aged 8 and older with leg weakness from conditions like cerebral palsy, stroke, or spinal cord injury will try both types …

This study is testing a special suit called the Neuro20 that uses mild electrical pulses to stimulate muscles in the arms, legs, chest, and back. Researchers want to see if wearing it during therapy sessions can improve walking ability, muscle performance, and heart health in peo…

This study tests whether taking probiotics or prebiotics daily for eight weeks can ease stomach and bowel problems in people with chronic spinal cord injury. Fifty participants will try both supplements in a crossover design, with a four-week break in between. The researchers wil…

This pilot study tests a new flexible bandage called exciflex that delivers mild electrical stimulation to chronic wounds that won't heal normally. The study includes 16 veterans with diabetes or spinal cord injury who have lower leg wounds. The bandage is designed to work for up…

This study tests whether an online program called SCI&U, which pairs people with trained peer health coaches, can help those recently discharged from inpatient rehab after a spinal cord injury. Participants will have up to 14 one-hour video sessions covering health topics like bl…

This study aims to create a smartphone system that sends personalized pain management tips to adults with multiple sclerosis or spinal cord injury who have chronic pain. Researchers will interview participants to understand their preferences for the content and timing of these no…

This study is building a detailed collection of medical information and biological samples from 105 people with spinal cord injury. Researchers will track how injuries change over time, what complications arise, and how the body responds. The goal is to create a research platform…

This study will video-record occupational therapy sessions for adults recovering from stroke or spinal cord injury. Researchers want to understand exactly what therapists do to help patients improve arm and hand movement. The goal is to create a toolkit that makes rehabilitation …

This study is developing a standard test to measure how well assistive technologies (like eye trackers) and brain-computer interfaces help people with spinal cord injury or ALS use computers and phones. Researchers will test 60 participants, including healthy volunteers and peopl…

This study is looking at whether measuring two proteins in the blood (NF-L and GFAP) soon after a spinal cord injury can help doctors predict how severe the injury is and how much recovery a person might have 6 months later. Researchers will enroll 260 adults with traumatic spina…

This study tests a non-invasive light sensor placed on the back to monitor blood flow to the spinal cord during major aortic surgery. The goal is to see if it can quickly detect problems that could lead to paralysis. About 120 adults having planned aortic repair will take part. I…

This study tests whether a remote training program can help manual wheelchair users improve their skills. Researchers will train peer coaches, then enroll 132 wheelchair users to receive either remote feedback training or be placed on a waitlist. The goal is to see if remote trai…

This small study tests whether combining standing therapy with mild electrical stimulation of a nerve in the leg can improve pelvic floor muscle function in adults with chronic spinal cord injury. Twelve participants will undergo 12 weeks of treatment, three times per week. Resea…

This study looks at how eating a high-fat meal affects pain sensitivity and inflammation in people with chronic spinal cord injury. Researchers will compare a high-fat meal to a moderate-fat meal in 40 adults. They aim to understand links between body composition, diet, and pain.

This study examines the role of the plantaris, a small calf muscle, in children having surgery for tight ankles (equinus). Researchers will randomly change the order of tendon cuts during surgery to measure how much each contributes to ankle movement. The goal is to understand if…

This study aims to understand how upper-limb assistive devices—like grasping gloves, mealtime aids, and robotic arms—impact the daily lives of people with motor impairments. Researchers will interview and survey 150 regular users (including those with stroke, spinal cord injury, …

This study tests whether combining non-invasive brain and spinal cord stimulation during a movement task can improve hand function and thinking in people with stroke or spinal cord injury. 45 participants will receive both types of stimulation separately and together to see if th…

This early-phase study looks at how a single dose of intranasal testosterone affects nerve and autonomic function in 15 male veterans with spinal cord injury who have low testosterone. Researchers will measure muscle responses and heart rate changes before and after the dose. The…

This study is testing a new questionnaire called the Pressure Relief Frequency Scale (PReFS) to see if it can reliably help wheelchair users with neurologic disorders (like spinal cord injury, stroke, or traumatic brain injury) decide how often they need to relieve pressure to pr…

This study is gathering information on how people naturally recover from spinal cord injuries. Researchers will follow 8000 participants across Europe, measuring their independence, movement, and nerve function over time. The goal is to create a detailed baseline of recovery, whi…

This study tests whether a brain stimulation training can strengthen the connections between the brain, spinal cord, and muscles in people with chronic cervical spinal cord injury. Researchers will enroll 15 adults with incomplete injuries at or above C6 who are at least one year…

This study tests two different ways of using electrical stimulation to exercise the legs of people with spinal cord injury. One group does short, intense bursts of exercise, while the other does longer, easier sessions. Researchers want to see which method better improves fitness…

This study is testing whether a combination of spinal cord stimulation and brain stimulation can safely improve arm and hand function in people with cervical spinal cord injury. Twenty adults with incomplete injuries will receive temporary spinal implants and brain stimulation ov…

This study tests whether ultrasound can measure muscle activation caused by two types of stimulation: non-invasive spinal cord stimulation and functional electrical stimulation. Researchers will apply these stimulations to the ankle muscles of 30 healthy adults and compare the re…