RFU Injured Players Foundation Newcastle University Inspire Foundation
Clinical Trial — Spinal Cord Injury

Your Recovery,
Your Home

Testing a novel home-based approach for strengthening motor pathways after cervical spinal cord injury.

Approved by Newcastle University Research Ethics Committee
What is the purpose of this study?

A spinal cord injury can make one or both hands weaker and less dextrous. This happens because the brain has trouble communicating with the spinal cord to pass the signal to your hand.

It's not just repetition — it's timing. We pair hand movements with nerve stimulation at the right moment to strengthen brain–hand connections.

The goal is to strengthen brain-to-hand connections and improve hand function. After demonstrating effects in healthy participants, we're now testing if our approach can help people recover after a spinal cord injury.

Researcher working with a participant in the neuroscience lab
Hand wearing the study device with electrodes
What does the study involve?

The study combines in-person assessment visits with a daily home-based exercise routine.

In-person Visits

  • 3 sessions, once every 6 weeks
  • Around 2 hours each
  • Breaks welcome whenever needed

At a Neurokinex Rehabilitation Gym (Bristol, Gatwick or Hemel Hempstead) or Newcastle University Medical School

At Home

  • 20 minutes per day for 6 weeks
  • Mobile phone game + gentle electrical stimulation
  • A phone is provided if needed

The game times your movements with gentle stimulation — it's all about the timing!

The more you play, the better your chance of recovery!

What do the experiments look like?

During your visits we will test communications between your brain and your hand. Everything will be explained, and you can ask questions at any time.

1
Check how well you can use your affected hand
2
See how your brain and muscles communicate
3
Test your speed and accuracy on simple tasks
4
Measure responses to lights and sounds

You'll receive a device and a mobile game to use at home. The game helps time your movements with gentle electrical stimulation — it's all about the timing!

We have spoken with healthcare professionals and support groups to ensure your rehabilitation goals and daily experiences are taken into consideration. This study was designed with you in mind.

Is this study right for you?

Please read the criteria below. If you are unsure whether you qualify, please don't hesitate to get in touch — we're happy to help.

✓ You may be eligible if you:

  • Are more than 1 year post injury
  • Have a cervical spinal cord injury (C2–C7) resulting in hand weakness
  • Can make well-timed hand movements (we can check this for you)

✕ You should not take part if you have:

  • An implanted device (e.g. pacemaker)
  • Ongoing cord compression or a spinal cord disease
  • A history of seizures or head injuries
  • Uncontrolled medical problems (e.g. heart disease)
  • An aversion to loud sounds

Contact Us

To learn more, register your interest, or have an informal chat, please reach out via the details below.

Lillian.Clements@newcastle.ac.uk 📞 07951 202024 🌐 www.rehabstim.com