Simple rubber band device could make treadmill training cheaper for spinal cord injury

NCT ID NCT02560506

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested a low-cost elastic band device designed to help therapists assist people with spinal cord injury while walking on a treadmill. The device uses rubber bands to help move the legs forward during walking. Nineteen participants with spinal cord injury tried the device, and researchers measured changes in walking speed and leg movement patterns. The goal was to see if this simple, affordable tool could improve treadmill training access.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: Elastic band pulley system (Theraband) attached to a treadmill
What this could lead to: If successful, this low-cost device could make treadmill training more accessible for people with spinal cord injury, potentially improving walking ability.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study with only 19 participants. The device is a simple elastic band system, and its benefits may be limited or not apply to everyone with spinal cord injury.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

spinal cord injury

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

SPINAL CORD INJURY

Contacts and locations

Locations

Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

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