Control of Unsupported Paraplegic Standing

Not Applicable

• Conditions: Spinal Cord Injury; Stroke

• Registration Number: NCT00204113
• Lead Sponsor: University of Glasgow

Brief Summary

The study will investigate the feasibility of using functional electrical stimulation (FES) of the calf muscles of paraplegic subjects to assist in posture stabilisation during standing. We aim to achieve postural stability by combining controlled FES of the lower-limb muscles with the voluntary motor control skills of the intact upper body.

Detailed Description

Aim:

The study will investigate the feasibility of using functional electrical stimulation (FES) of the calf muscles of paraplegic subjects to assist in posture stabilisation during standing. We aim to achieve postural stability by combining controlled FES of the lower-limb muscles with the voluntary motor control skills of the intact upper body.

Background:

In spinal cord injury (SCI), the paralysed muscles generally retain their ability to contract and electrical stimulation can be used in rehabilitation as a therapy. With functional electrical stimulation (FES) the aim is to restore some normal motor functions such as standing, stepping or cycling. A number of studies have investigated the physiological effects and potential therapeutic benefits of lower-limb FES exercise. These studies have shown that the benefits include restoration of muscle bulk and strength, a reduction in the rate of bone demineralisation, improvements in the range of joint motion, and relaxation of spasm. Standing is an important part of rehabilitation therapy for paraplegic patients, and helps to alleviate some of the secondary effects of paralysis.

Study Timeline

• Study Start: 2002-06
• Study First Submitted: 2005-09-12
• Study First Submitted QC: 2005-09-12
• Study First Posted: 2005-09-20
• Status Verified: 2008-06
• Last Update Submitted: 2008-06-10
• Last Update Posted: 2008-06-13

Recruitment & Eligibility

• Status: UNKNOWN
• Sex: All
• Target Recruitment: 10

Inclusion Criteria

• Neurologically intact, healthy individuals individuals with complete spinal cord lesion between T6 and T12

Exclusion Criteria

• Incomplete SCI

Study & Design

• Study Type: INTERVENTIONAL
• Study Design: SINGLE_GROUP

Primary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
estimates of physical parameters (ie. stiffness, viscosity, inertia)

Secondary Outcome Measures

Name	Time	Method
quality of standing
amount of sway
timing of standing

Trial Locations

Locations (2)

University of Glasgow; 🇬🇧 Glasgow, Lanarkshire, United Kingdom

Queen Elizabeth National Spinal Injuries Unit; 🇬🇧 Glasgow, Lanarkshire, United Kingdom