Are better outcomes for spinal cord injury on the horizon?
Innovative clinical trials are reshaping the future of spinal cord injury treatment, according to a study published in The Lancet. With cutting-edge trial designs and a deeper understanding of nerve regeneration, researchers are paving the way for potential breakthroughs that could change lives.
Spinal cord injuries are devastating, often leading to paralysis and loss of sensation, requiring lifelong care. Despite decades of research, there is still no proven treatment that restores full function. However, recent advancements offer new hope that include:
Smarter, More Adaptive Trials
For years, spinal cord injury studies followed rigid, conventional trial methods. Today, researchers are embracing more flexible, adaptive designs that allow them to refine their approach as data emerges. For example…
->The Riluzole in Acute Spinal Cord Injury (RISCIS) study adjusted its sample size based on early results, improving efficiency.
->The AXER-204 trial combined multiple study phases to accelerate progress.
->The SPRING trial concluded early when initial findings showed limited effectiveness, freeing up resources for more promising research.
Overcoming Key Challenges
A major hurdle in past studies was determining whether treatments reached the spinal cord to achieve their intended effect. Newer research now analyzes spinal fluid for biological markers, providing clearer insights into a drug’s impact.
Measuring What Matters
Traditionally, clinical trials focused on lower body movement, but new research is shifting toward upper limb function—critical for improving independence. Advanced tools like GRASSP assess hand and arm movement, while MRI scans and nerve tests offer more precise tracking of treatment effects.
Moving Toward Real Solutions
Smarter study designs, better measurement tools, and a stronger research framework are pushing the field forward. These advances are bringing scientists closer to life-changing treatments.
Regardless of how an injury came about, getting funds for special needs and care can make all the difference between a life of hardship or one of support.
Tom Duffy has been a member of the board of Magee Rehabilitation Foundation for over 20 years. He is keenly aware of developments in spinal cord care and has obtained 8-figure verdicts for people who have suffered spinal cord injuries in Philadelphia.
Please contact us if you would like to discuss the details of a possible lawsuit involving negligence.