Neuromodulation of the Cortex and Spinal Cord for Youth and Adults with Cerebral Palsy

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the neural activity in the brain and spinal cord of people with cerebral palsy CP, a common pediatric motor disability caused by brain injury during development. The study aims to understand how sensorimotor cortical activity, spinal cord activity, and their connections differ in people with CP compared to those without neurological issues. The study also explores how these brain and spinal cord functions relate to the physical symptoms of CP. The study evaluates the effects of transcutaneous current stimulation, a noninvasive method applying low electrical currents over the cortex and spinal cord, on neural activity. Participants include both individuals with CP and neurotypical controls. The trial has a randomized, double-blind design comparing stimulation versus sham treatments to assess changes in neural activity and their links to clinical presentations. Participants will undergo clinical assessments of motor and sensory functions, brain and spinal cord MRI scans, MEG brain imaging, and Hoffman reflex tests. They will also receive transcutaneous current stimulation sessions. Researchers will measure changes in neural activity, motor performance, and sensory acuity. The study involves multiple one-hour assessments and a 30-minute stimulation. The total participation period and follow-up details extend up to the studys completion in 2029.

Neuromodulation of the Cortex and Spinal Cord