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.
Transcutaneous spinal stimulation (TSS) is a form of electrical stimulation delivered over the skin of the spine that may be valuable for reducing spasticity without the side effects of antispasticity medications. The intensity of stimulation, or dose, that promotes the best response is not known. 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.