Neuromodulation as an Anti-inflammatory Treatment in SCI

The goal of this single-blinded randomized, controlled trial is to assess the impact of 1-hour of active transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) vs sham taVNS on serum biomarkers of the inflammatory reflex and inflammation in individuals with spinal cord injury.The main question it aims to answer is: whether taVNS is a safe and effective anti-inflammatory intervention for individuals with SCI. Participants will perform a single 1-hour bout of the respective taVNS treatment with blood draws prior to treatment, immediately following treatment, and 24 hours following treatment. Changes in biomarkers between the active and sham taVNS conditions will be compared.

Inclusion Criteria:Any level of severity of spinal cord injury18 years of age or olderExclusion Criteria:pregnant or attempting to become pregnantpeople with active implants (e.g. cochlear implant, implanted vagus nerve stimulator, cardiac pacemaker)people with cerebral shunts