Using Muscle Functional MRI to Study Spatial Muscle Activation Patterns in People With SCI

Launched by KESSLER FOUNDATION · Jul 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how muscles work in people with spinal cord injuries (SCI) using a special type of MRI scan called muscle functional MRI (mfMRI). This scan helps researchers see which muscles are active by detecting changes inside the muscles after exercise. The study focuses on the muscles in the thigh that help straighten the knee. By comparing people with SCI to those without injuries, the researchers hope to learn new details about muscle activation patterns that could improve future treatments and therapies.

People who might be eligible for this study are adults aged 18 to 50 with a chronic (long-term) motor incomplete spinal cord injury, meaning they have some movement below the injury but cannot stand or walk, even with help. Participants must also be able to move one knee joint on their own, even if just a little. Able-bodied volunteers with similar age and body size can also join as a comparison group. During the study, participants will do simple leg exercises outside the MRI machine and then have their thigh muscles scanned while lying down. This process is safe and non-invasive, and it will help researchers better understand muscle function after SCI.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • SCI group Inclusion criteria
• • Age: 18-50 yrs
• • BMI \<35 kg/m2
• • Chronic injury (at least 1 year post injury)
• • Neurological injury status: Incomplete motor and sensory SCI classified with ASIA Impairment Scale C or D
• • Ambulatory status: Participants must be nonambulatory. Individuals who can stand or walk even a few steps with or without assistance will not be eligible to participate
• * Ability to flex and extend at least one knee joint under volitional control:
• • without stimulation or assistance
• • full range of motion not required
• • ability to move against gravity not required Able bodied group Inclusion criteria
• • Age: 18-50 yrs
• • BMI \<35 kg/m2
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • -