The study is designed to investigate the effects of passive heat therapy on blood vessel health in 40 people (48 enrolled with attrition rate of 20%). Following an extensive set of vascular function tests, participants will engage in either a passive heat therapy intervention for 60 minutes, 4 times a week for 8 weeks, or a placebo intervention at a lower temperature. Seven of the 8 weeks of intervention will occur in the home setting. Vascular function tests will be repeated after the 8 weeks to determine if chronic passive heat stress improved vascular health.
Participant demonstrates understanding of the study and has provided an appropriately signed and dated informed consent.
Participants will be male or female, 18-60 years of age, at the time of Visit 0.
Female participants must be non-lactating. Female patients are eligible only if they have a negative pregnancy test throughout the study period (or are postmenopausal). Postmenopausal women taking hormone replacement will be included if they have been on a stable dose for =6 months.
Stable SCI (AIS A or B) of longer than 1-year duration.
Uses daily administration of anti-inflammatory medications (stable doses of NSAIDs or statins are acceptable; steroids are exclusionary)
Uses daily administration of vasoactive medications (e.g., alpha antagonists or agonists or phosphodiesterase inhibitors).
Has a current pressure ulcer or skin breakdown.
Has an active, uncontrolled, autoimmune or inflammatory disorder
The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
Lead sponsor
Congressionally Directed Medical Research Programs
Collaborator