Theta Burst Stimulation to Promote Motor Re-education in Tetraplegia

Completed · Not applicable

Conditions studied: Quadriplegia/Tetraplegia

In brief

A repetitive, non-invasive brain stimulation technique referred to as theta burst stimulation can modulate corticomotor excitability and therefore has great rehabilitative potential for individuals with neurologic deficits, including individuals with spinal cord injury (SCI). In particular, intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) can increase corticomotor excitability and may be a useful adjunct to physical rehabilitation to promote motor re-education after upper limb reconstruction in individuals with tetraplegia. Upper limb reconstruction involves surgical transfer of a non-paralyzed tendon or nerve with a redundant or less important function to perform a more critical function. Upper limb reconstruction is intended to help individuals achieve their goals related to activities of daily living and independence in the community. Outcomes after reconstruction are variable and depend largely on the efficacy of motor re-education of the transferred muscle to perform a new function. The long-term goal of our research is to determine whether iTBS combined with physical rehabilitation can improve motor re-education after reconstruction. As a first step, the purpose of this proposal is to determine the effect of iTBS on corticomotor excitability of proximal muscles in nonimpaired individuals and two groups of individuals with tetraplegia: individuals with and without upper limb reconstruction.

Key facts

Study ID
NCT03277521
Run by
Virginia Commonwealth University
People needed
19
Starts
2018-04-16
Expected to finish
2020-02-28
Last updated by the study team
2020-11-17

Who can join

Age: 18 and older, up to 65. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: accepted.

Where it is running

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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