Clinical Research Directory
Browse clinical research sites, groups, and studies.
Home-Based Digital Rehabilitation Program Optimized With Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation for Upper Limb Functional Enhancement in Tetraplegia (HOPE): A Safety, Efficacy, and Feasibility Study
Sponsor: Singapore General Hospital
Summary
Individuals with chronic cervical spinal cord injury (SCI) and tetraplegia commonly experience persistent impairment in upper limb function, leading to reduced independence and quality of life. Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has demonstrated potential to improve upper limb strength and function when combined with rehabilitation. However, access to tSCS is limited in Singapore due to cost, regulatory barriers, and the need for frequent outpatient therapy. This study evaluates the safety, efficacy, and feasibility of a home-based digital rehabilitation program incorporating tSCS delivered using a commercially available neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) device. Using a prospective, open-label single-case experimental design with multiple baselines across participants, individuals with chronic, non-progressive cervical SCI will receive daily home-based tSCS combined with an mobile application-guided upper limb exercise program. Upper limb function, quality of life, feasibility, and safety outcomes will be assessed longitudinally over a 22-week study period.
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
21 Years - 75 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
9
Start Date
2026-04
Completion Date
2027-12
Last Updated
2026-02-27
Healthy Volunteers
No
Interventions
Home-based digital rehabilitation programme with tSCS
Home-based digital rehabilitation programme with tSCS introduced at staggered time points following varying duration of baseline usual care
Locations (1)
Singapore General Hospital
Singapore, Singapore