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  4. Exoskeleton Training for Spinal Cord Injury Neuropathic Pain (ExSCIP): Protocol for a Phase 2 Feasibility Randomised Trial

Exoskeleton Training for Spinal Cord Injury Neuropathic Pain (ExSCIP): Protocol for a Phase 2 Feasibility Randomised Trial

HRB Open Research, 2024 · DOI: https://doi.org/10.12688/hrbopenres.13949.1 · Published: September 2, 2024

Spinal Cord InjuryPain ManagementRehabilitation

Simple Explanation

This study aims to explore a non-drug approach to manage neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury. The study will test if walking with robotic assistance (exoskeleton) can reduce pain intensity and interference. The results will help decide if a larger, international study is needed to confirm these findings.

Study Duration
12 weeks intervention
Participants
40 participants with moderate-to-severe NP post SCI
Evidence Level
Phase 2 single-blinded, randomised feasibility study

Key Findings

  • 1
    The study will assess recruitment and retention rates for an exoskeleton-based walking intervention.
  • 2
    The study will evaluate the acceptability of the intervention to both participants and staff.
  • 3
    The study aims to determine if the intervention shows positive signals in reducing neuropathic pain.

Research Summary

This study protocol outlines a phase 2 randomized trial to assess exoskeleton walking for neuropathic pain after spinal cord injury. The trial aims to address the need for non-pharmacological treatments for neuropathic pain post-SCI. The study will evaluate the feasibility and acceptability of a 12-week exoskeleton walking program.

Practical Implications

Clinical Practice

Findings could contribute to the evidence base for non-pharmacological management of NP after SCI.

Future Research

The results will inform the decision to proceed with a larger, multi-center international trial.

Intervention Refinement

Qualitative analysis of participant experiences will help refine the ExSCIP intervention.

Study Limitations

  • 1
    SCI is considered a rare condition, potentially limiting recruitment.
  • 2
    Blinding participants to the ExSCIP intervention is not feasible.
  • 3
    The study is a single-center trial, which may limit generalizability.

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