Random Noise Stimulation to Enhance Cortical Drive & Improve Hand Function

Summary

Cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) results in hand and arm function impairments and decreased independence in performance of daily activities such as bathing, eating, dressing, writing, or typing. Recent approaches that involve the application of non-invasive brain stimulation have the potential to strengthen the remaining connections between the brain and the spinal cord for improved hand function. Combining brain stimulation with performing upper limb functional tasks may further increase the ability of individuals with tetraplegia to use their hands. The purpose of this study is to investigate if "random noise", a special type of brain stimulation that most people cannot feel, can be used to enhance upper limb function in individuals with spinal cord injury. Specifically, the investigators will examine if a combined treatment protocol of random noise and fine motor training results in greater improvements in motor and sensory hand function compared to fine motor training alone.

Conditions

• Spinal Cord Injuries
• Tetraplegia
• Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

Interventions

OTHER

transcranial Random Noise Stimulation (tRNS)

Two electrodes will be placed over the targeted areas on participant's head. A current of random frequency and intensity will be delivered. TRNS will be applied during the first 20 min of functional task practice.

OTHER

transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS)

Two electrodes will be placed over the targeted areas on participant's head. A continuous low intensity current will be delivered. TDCS will be applied during the first 20 min of functional task practice.

OTHER

sham-stimulation

Two electrodes will be placed over the targeted areas on participant's head. A continuous low intensity current will be delivered for 1- 2 min.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• The Craig H. Neilsen Foundation

  collaborator OTHER

• Shepherd Center, Atlanta GA

  lead OTHER

Principal Investigators

• Anastasia Zarkou, PT,MS,PhD · Shepherd Center, Atlanta GA

Study Design

Allocation

RANDOMIZED

Purpose

TREATMENT

Masking

DOUBLE

Model

CROSSOVER

Eligibility

Min Age

18 Years

Max Age

75 Years

Sex

ALL

Healthy Volunteers

No

Timeline & Regulatory

Start

2021-04-12

Primary Completion

2022-08-10

Completion

2022-08-10

Countries

• United States

Study Locations