A man wearing a harness and support system is on a treadmill in a rehabilitation center, smiling as he looks at a screen in front of him. A physical therapist kneels nearby, adjusting equipment controls.

Participate in spinal cord injury research

Learn about current spinal cord injury (SCI) clinical trials and research studies at Shepherd Center. To be considered for current and future research studies, complete and submit our Research Interest Survey.

Our approach to spinal cord injury research

Physical rehabilitation is one of the most effective methods for restoring function after a spinal cord injury, improving hand and walking abilities while reducing spasticity.

At Shepherd Center, our research team is devoted to advancing both knowledge and care for individuals with spinal cord injuries. We emphasize translational and clinical research, focusing on neurorehabilitation and neuromodulation. Our studies are based on the latest neuroscience to deliver meaningful outcomes for those affected.

We are committed to understanding how physical rehabilitation influences the nervous system, a process known as neuroplasticity. By combining this insight with cutting-edge therapeutic technologies, we aim to develop more effective strategies to enhance function and improve the quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries.

Current SCI research studies

To learn more about participating in current spinal cord injury clinical trials and research studies at Shepherd Center, explore current opportunities below.

Principal investigator

Edelle Field-Fote, PT, Ph.D., FAPTA, FASIA

About this study

Spasticity involves involuntary muscle activity in persons with spinal cord injury (SCI) that can include increased response to muscle stretch and physical touch, as well as muscle stiffness. Due to the combination of symptoms, several drug therapies are currently prescribed to reduce spasticity but they may have negative side effects including fatigue and muscle weakness. Transcutaneous spinal stimulation (TSS) is a form of electrical stimulation delivered over the skin of the spine that seems to have effects that are similar to drug therapy. Prior studies of TSS in persons with SCI suggest that TSS can reduce spasticity without negative side effects. The intensity of stimulation, or dose, that promotes the best response is not known. In addition, sensitive measurements are necessary to assess the changes that can be seen in multiple presentations of spasticity. Understanding the response to different intensities of stimulation and how they affect spasticity will help guide rehabilitation for persons with SCI. Therefore, this study aims to identify the effects of TSS as a non-drug intervention for spasticity management.

Participation eligibility

  • A SCI with any severity classification (AIS A, B, C, or D) that occurred at least three months ago
  • At least mild “spasticity” affecting lower extremity muscles
  • Use of prescription medications is acceptable, as long as the dosage has not changed in the last two weeks and notification of medication changes is made during study participation
  • Ability to follow multiple commands
  • Ability to communicate pain or discomfort
  • Ability and willingness to authorize the use of protected health information
  • Ability and willingness to reside in Atlanta for the duration of the study

More information

More information about this clinical trial is available at SCITrials.org. If interested in participating, please contact our research staff below.

Jaclyn Miller, PT, DPT, NCS
[email protected]
(404) 350-7638

Principal investigator

Edelle Field-Fote, PT, Ph.D., FAPTA, FASIA

About this study

For many people with spinal cord injury (SCI), the goal of walking is a high priority. There are many approaches available to restore walking function after SCI; however, these approaches often involve extensive rehabilitation training and access to facilities, qualified staff, and advanced technology that make practicing walking at home difficult. For this reason, developing training approaches that could be easily performed in the home would be of great value. In addition, non-invasive spinal stimulation has the potential to increase the effectiveness of communication between the brain and spinal cord. Combining motor skill training with spinal stimulation may further enhance the restoration of function in persons with SCI. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to determine if moderate-intensity, motor skill training can improve walking-related outcomes among persons with SCI and to determine if the addition of non-invasive spinal stimulation will result in greater improvements in function compared to training alone.

Participation eligibility

  • A spinal cord injury (neurological level T12 or above)
  • Injury occurred at least three months ago (sub-acute to chronic)
  • SCI severity (AIS) classification C or D
  • Ability to stand for at least five minutes (with or without an assistive device)
  • Ability to move each leg independently for at least three steps
  • Ability to rise from sit to stand with no more than moderate assistance from one person
  • Ability and willingness to consent and authorize use of personal health information
  • Ability and willingness to reside in Atlanta for the duration of the study

More information

More information about this clinical trial is available at SCITrials.org. If interested in participating, please contact our research staff below.

Jaclyn Miller, PT, DPT, NCS
[email protected]
(404) 350-7638

Meet the SCI research scientists

Our team of scientists work in the Hulse Spinal Cord Injury Laboratory, striving to bridge the gap between basic science and clinical practice to promote functional restoration and enhance quality of life.

  • Edelle Field-Fote, PT, MS, Ph.D., FAPTA, FASIA, Director of Spinal Cord Injury Research & The Hulse Spinal Cord Injury Laboratory
  • Jennifer Iddings, Ph.D., SCI Clinical Research Scientist
  • Anastasia Zarkou, PT, MS, Ph.D., SCI Clinical Research Scientist
  • Nick Evans, MHS, Ph.D., SCI Clinical Research Scientist
  • Evan Sandler, PT, D.P.T., Ph.D., SCI Clinical Research Scientist

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