This is a trial recruiting individuals with chronic incomplete spinal cord injuries to test the effect of functional electrical stimulation (FES) of the legs on reactive stepping and balance recovery while standing and walking in a therapist-controlled safety harness. If included, participants will receive multiple sessions of FES to leg nerves in combination with 1-hour standing/stepping in a safety harness applied to the trunk while being pushed and pulled unexpectedly (perturbation-based balance training – PBT). Training sessions will be conducted over a period up to 7 weeks. Balance and walking tests will be performed at the conclusion of the training sessions.
Traumatic
Type
Details
The participant will receive multiple sessions of FES to leg nerves in combination with 1-hour walking/stepping in a safety harness while being pushed and pulled unexpectedly (PBT). Final balance and walking tests will be performed at the completion of the training sessions, with an interview of the participant 3 months later to determine perceived challenges and benefits of the PBT+FES program.
Main benefits
Standing/walking/mobility
Additional benefits
General health
Mechanism of action
Good to know: Potential benefits are defined as outcomes that are being measured during and/or after the trial.
Wings for Life has proudly initiated, led and funded the new version of the SCI Trials Finder website. Wings for Life aims to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. The not-for-profit foundation funds world-class scientific research and clinical trials around the globe.
Learn moreWings for Life has proudly initiated, led and funded the new version of the SCI Trials Finder website. Wings for Life aims to find a cure for spinal cord injuries. The not-for-profit foundation funds world-class scientific research and clinical trials around the globe.
Learn more