This trial is enrolling individuals with acute spinal cord injuries (14 to 21 days since injury) to test the effect of functional electrical stimulation (FES) leg cycling on leg muscle atrophy, pain, spasticity, and neurological outcomes. FES is a technique that applies electrical stimulation through the skin to nerves to cause contraction of weakened or paralyzed muscles. In this case FES is applied in order to determine if it prevents muscle wasting, pain, and spasticity and improves recovery if begun early following spinal cord injury. . If included, participants will be randomly assigned to one of three study groups: a) receive standard care only; b) receive the FES cycling program in the first three months of the study; or c) receive the FES cycling program in the second three months of the study. Final testing will be performed after 6 months.
Traumatic
Non-traumatic
Type
Details
Assigned to one of three study arms: 1. Standard of care 2. Electrical stimulation of weakened or paralyzed muscles of the legs in an FES cycling program for 6 months beginning 14-21 days post injury 3. Electrical stimulation of weakened or paralyzed muscles of the legs in an FES cycling program for 3 months beginning 3 months after enrollment - Outcome measures throughout the study, up to 6 months
Main benefits
Standing/walking/mobility
Additional benefits
Arm/hand function
General health
Mental health and psychosocial factors
Pain
Sensory function
Spasticity
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