Vagus Nerve Stimulation with Rehab for Spinal Cord Injury

Safety and Feasibility of Paired Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) With Upper Limb Rehabilitation in Incomplete Spinal Cord Injury

Recruiting N/A Interventional Study
Chronic Incomplete Cervical Spinal Cord Injury (SCI)
No Placebo Group Every participant receives an active treatment — no one gets a placebo.
Ready to participate?

Review the details below, then apply to join this clinical trial.

At a Glance
Age
18 and older
Sex
Any
Study type
Interventional
Purpose
Other
Participants needed
12 (estimated)
Sponsor
The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · Other
Who this trial is looking for

This trial is looking for adults with limited arm movement due to a cervical spinal cord injury. Participants will receive a new type of nerve stimulation along with rehabilitation exercises to see if it is safe and helpful.

Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?

You may be able to join if

  • I have a traumatic incomplete cervical spinal cord injury.
  • I am at least 12 months but less than 10 years post-injury.
  • I can move my fingers enough to grip small objects.

You may not be able to join if

  • I have a non-traumatic spinal cord injury.
  • I have had recent ear trauma or skin issues where the device will be placed.
  • I have facial or ear pain.
  • I am allergic to adhesives or electrodes.
  • I have a history of heart problems.
  • I have metal implants in my head or a pacemaker.
  • I have mental or medical instability.
  • I am pregnant or planning to become pregnant during the study.

Summarized in plain language from this trial's official eligibility criteria. The full criteria are further down this page — only the research team can confirm whether you qualify.

Think this trial could be right for you?

Answer a few quick questions to see if you may meet the eligibility requirements.

Check Your Eligibility
About This Trial

The purpose of this study is to evaluate the safety and feasibility of transcutaneous auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) paired with upper-limb rehabilitation in adults with tetraplegia caused by cervical spinal cord injury.

Trial Locations
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Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * diagnosis of traumatic incomplete (AIS B-D) cervical spinal cord injury (C8 and above) * at least 12 months post-traumatic SCI but less than 10 years post-SCI * demonstrate some residual movement in the upper limb (e.g., able to perform pinch movement with thumb and index fing…
Contacts

Radha Korupolu, MD

713-797-5233

Radha.Korupolu@uth.tmc.edu

CONTACT

Shrasti Lohiya

(713) 797-7132

Shrasti.Lohiya@uth.tmc.edu

CONTACT