The purpose of the current study is to evaluate whether a home-based, telehealth-supported intervention combining Blood Flow Restricted Exercise (BES) and Transspinal Stimulation (TS) will improve motor and functional abilities greater than BES+sham TS in persons with chronic, incomplete tetraplegia.
A written clearance from the study medical doctor to ensure that the participant is safely able to engage in the study.
Participants must have a companion that will be able to help him/her throughout the study.
Greater than 1-year post SCI, neurologic level of C8 or above.
American Spinal Injury Association Impairment Scale (AIS) scores of B, C, or D indicating presence of an incomplete SCI.
Unhealed fracture in upper or lower extremities.
Severe scoliosis, severe upper extremity contractures, or other musculoskeletal issues that would impede participation in a BES + TS intervention or valid evaluation of outcome measures.
High resting blood pressure greater than 140/80 mmHg.
Taking anti-coagulants or anti-platelet agents, including aspirin if unable to be off this medication for medical reasons.
Virginia Commonwealth University
Lead sponsor
National Institute on Disability, Independent Living, and Rehabilitation Research
Collaborator
ACL Administration for Community Living
Collaborator