Spinal zaps may help brain injury patients move arms again
NCT ID NCT07147816
First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jul 16, 2026 · Updated 3 times
Summary
This study tested whether a non-invasive electrical stimulation applied to the skin over the upper spine could temporarily improve arm and hand strength, control, and spasticity in people with traumatic brain injury. Only 14 participants were enrolled before the study was terminated. Researchers measured immediate effects during a single session, comparing results with the stimulation turned on versus off.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the cervical spinal cord (tSCS)
- What this could lead to
- If this approach shows promise, it could point toward a non-invasive way to improve arm and hand function after traumatic brain injury, potentially leading to more independence.
- What could go wrong
- This was a very small, early-stage study that was terminated, so results are limited. The stimulation only provided immediate effects within a single session, and it is unclear if benefits would last or apply to daily life.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
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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
-
University of Pittsburgh
Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States
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