Spinal zaps may boost leg strength in kids with spina bifida

NCT ID NCT07615686

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Bailey Petersen Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jul 31, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This pilot study tests whether a mild electrical current applied to the spinal cord (transcutaneous stimulation) can improve leg muscle strength, walking, and bladder function in 20 children with spina bifida (myelomeningocele). The children, aged 4-17, will receive stimulation while researchers measure changes in muscle torque, joint angles, and bladder pressure. The goal is to see if this non-invasive approach offers any immediate benefit.

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 cord stimulation (TENS unit)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a non-invasive way to improve walking and bladder control in children with spina bifida.
What could go wrong: This is a very small pilot study (20 children) with no control group, so results may not be conclusive. The device is used off-label, and benefits may be modest or absent.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

myelomeningocele spina bifida

As listed by the trial registrant

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

MYELOMENINGOCELE SPINA BIFIDA

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Pittsburgh
RECRUITING

Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, 15213, United States

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