Electrical Spinal Cord Stimulation for Upper Extremity Function in Multiple Sclerosis

This study focuses on exploring a new treatment method for adults with multiple sclerosis (MS), specifically targeting those with difficulties in using their arms and hands. Traditional treatments for MS aim to stop new lesions from forming in the nervous system, but they don't help repair existing damage. This study is important because it looks at a potential new way to restore function and improve quality of life by combining electrical spinal cord stimulation with occupational therapy. This approach could lead to better outcomes in terms of hand and arm function, as well as potentially easing symptoms like pain and muscle stiffness. Participants in the study will undergo two different treatment phases, each lasting six weeks. One phase involves receiving spinal cord stimulation through electrodes placed on the skin, along with occupational therapy. The other phase consists of occupational therapy alone. The order of these treatments will be random, and a six-week break is included between them to clear any effects from the first phase. Researchers will assess if the stimulation is safe and if it effectively improves arm function and symptoms related to quality of life, such as pain and spasticity. The study aims to establish whether adding spinal cord stimulation to therapy offers more benefits than therapy by itself.