Spinal zaps help stroke survivors walk better?

NCT ID NCT03714282

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

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This small study tested whether a noninvasive electrical stimulation device placed on the skin over the spinal cord could help people who have trouble walking after a stroke. Eight participants received either spinal stimulation plus gait training or gait training alone. The goal was to see if the stimulation improved step symmetry and walking speed. Results are preliminary and need confirmation in larger studies.

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 spinal cord stimulation
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a noninvasive way to improve walking and balance after a stroke.
What could go wrong: This was a very small, early study with only 8 participants. Results may not apply to everyone, and the approach may not prove effective in larger trials.

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.

stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

STROKE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

More trials for these conditions

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