Brain Training for Spinal Cord Injury
(SCI-IQ Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores whether a cognitive training program can improve the thinking speed of individuals with recent spinal cord injuries. Participants will engage in game-like computer exercises three times a week for 12 weeks. Some will perform these specific activities, while others will complete placebo tasks for comparison. This trial suits adults who experienced a traumatic spinal cord injury within the last six months and do not have other major neurological conditions. As an unphased trial, it offers participants the chance to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance cognitive recovery strategies.
Do I need to stop my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications.
What prior data suggests that this cognitive training program is safe for individuals with spinal cord injury?
Research has shown that game-like computer activities are generally safe for people with spinal cord injuries. Studies have found that similar computer-based exercises, such as virtual reality rehab, are well-tolerated and can enhance physical abilities without causing harm. For instance, one study found that virtual reality training improved walking and balance in people with spinal cord injuries, with no serious side effects reported.
Although this specific cognitive training program is new, the use of computer games for rehab has a history of safety. The activities involve repeating specific tasks, which are typically low-risk. Studies of these activities have reported no serious problems, suggesting they are safe to try.12345Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about this brain training method for spinal cord injury because it offers a novel, non-invasive approach that aims to improve cognitive function through game-like computerized activities. Unlike traditional treatments that focus primarily on physical rehabilitation, this method leverages cognitive training to potentially enhance neural pathways and brain plasticity. By engaging patients in regular, structured cognitive exercises, it could offer an innovative way to support overall recovery and improve quality of life, addressing an aspect often overlooked by standard physical therapies.
What evidence suggests that this cognitive training program is effective for improving processing speed in spinal cord injury?
Research has shown that game-like computer activities, which participants in this trial may receive, can help improve thinking skills. Studies have found that these digital games can enhance cognitive speed in people with spinal cord injuries. For example, one study on brain injuries found that serious games for mental exercises can be beneficial. Another study demonstrated that digital games could improve thinking skills and overall well-being. These findings suggest that the computer activities in this trial might help people with spinal cord injuries think more quickly.46789
Who Is on the Research Team?
Erica Weber, PhD
Principal Investigator
Kessler Foundation
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for individuals aged 18-59 who have recently experienced a traumatic spinal cord injury, approximately within the last 6 months. It's designed to help those facing cognitive impairments due to their injury.Inclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants engage in pre-specified computer tasks using an Internet-based cognitive training portal, 3 times per week for 60 minutes each session
Immediate Post-Treatment Assessment
Assessment of cognitive processing speed using SDMT, UFOV, and LPC tasks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for long-term effects on cognitive processing speed and quality of life
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- game-like computerized activities
- Placebo
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Kessler Foundation
Lead Sponsor
University of Washington
Collaborator
Craig Hospital
Collaborator