Can rhythmic beats help people with spinal cord injury walk better?
NCT ID NCT07674927
First seen Jun 30, 2026 · Last updated Jul 01, 2026 · Updated 1 time
Summary
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 supervised physical therapy sessions twice a week for six weeks. Researchers will measure changes in walking speed, endurance, and patient-reported outcomes at the start, after treatment, and at a 12-week follow-up.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- rhythmic auditory stimulation device (MedRhythms)
- What this could lead to
- If effective, this approach could offer a simple, drug-free way to improve walking ability during physical therapy for people with incomplete spinal cord injury.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very small pilot study with only 15 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The device is meant to assist therapy, not replace it, and benefits may be modest.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for SPINAL CORD INJURY are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
UC Davis Point West
RECRUITINGSacramento, California, 95817, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can a 'Smart Bridge' in the spine help paralyzed patients walk again?
- Spinal zaps may steady blood pressure in spinal cord injury
- Can a simple pill stabilize blood pressure after spinal cord injury?
- Can breathing power boost balance and Well-Being in paralympic athletes?
- Spinal implant + robot rehab: a new hope for walking after injury?
- Can a robotic suit plus spinal stimulation help paralyzed individuals walk again?