Effectiveness of Brain-Computer Interface Controlled Electrical Stimulation Therapy for Upper Limb Recovery in Cervical Spinal Cord Injury

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a therapy that uses a brain-computer interface combined with functional electrical stimulation to help improve upper limb function in people with cervical spinal cord injury. This randomized controlled trial compares this brain-controlled therapy with a sham intervention where electrical stimulation is applied without brain-computer interface control. The study aims to assess clinical and physiological effects related to neurorehabilitation of upper limbs after spinal cord injury. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two groups one receiving functional electrical stimulation controlled by the brain-computer interface based on their intention to move their hand, and the other receiving sham stimulation that is not controlled by the brain-computer interface. The intervention lasts 7 weeks, during which hand movements are elicited using these devices to support rehabilitation. During the study, participants will undergo assessments at the start and after 7 weeks of treatment. These include tests measuring upper limb function such as the Action Research Arm Test, Upper Extremity Motor Score, and Capabilities of Upper Extremities Questionnaire. Secondary assessments include measures of independence and life satisfaction. The trial includes monitoring for safety and effectiveness of the interventions over this period, with participant involvement focused on these evaluations.

Efficacy of a Brain-Computer Interface Controlled Functional Electrical Stimulation Therapy for Spinal Cord Injury Neurorehabilitation