Timing and Dosage of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia in Persons With SCI

Timing and Dosage Parameters of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia in Individuals With Spinal Cord Injury.

This study will utilize short duration and mild levels of reduced oxygen (hypoxia) to induce spinal plasticity while evaluating the appropriate timing schedule for this intervention, as well as, the effects of superimposing sessions of a therapy, in individuals with chronic incomplete SCI. Our aim is to establish the time-course of outcome improvement and decay following a single session or multiple sessions of AIH therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Spinal cord lesion at level of C3 to T1
2. Individuals with a history of incomplete spinal cord injury, classified as ASIA C or D
3. Individuals must be at least 6 months status post injury
4. Individuals must be between the ages of 18-70 years inclusive, male or female
5. Spinal cord injury must be secondary to a non-progressive etiology
6. Individuals must be medically stable.
7. Able to comply with protocol/study requirements
8. Not currently (>2 weeks) taking any medications for spasticity management.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Recent change in the use of narcotic, anti-inflammatory or pain medication
2. Unstable medical conditions or any other clinical observation that may affect the candidate's performance, health, safety or the ability to participate in the study, as determined by the treating therapist
3. History of sleep apnea
4. Active participation in another movement research study or therapy program
5. Anti-spasticity drug injection less than 3 months, prior to beginning treatment
6. Musculoskeletal pain that interferes with participation in study
7. Women who are currently, may be or planning on becoming pregnant