Could a gentle zap to the back calm spastic muscles after spinal injury?

NCT ID NCT06214208

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Shepherd Center, Atlanta GA Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a noninvasive electrical stimulation applied to the lower back can reduce spasticity (involuntary muscle activity), improve muscle strength, and lessen pain in people with spinal cord injury. Thirty-six participants will receive the stimulation over several sessions, and researchers will measure leg movement and reflexes before, during, and after treatment. The goal is to see if this simple technique can provide short-term relief without medication.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcutaneous spinal stimulation (electrical stimulation through the skin)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-drug way to ease muscle tightness and improve movement after spinal cord injury.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-phase study with only 36 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The effects are measured immediately after stimulation, so long-term benefits are unknown.

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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 INJURIES

Contacts and locations

Locations

Shepherd Center, Inc.
RECRUITING

Atlanta, Georgia, 30309, United States

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