Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation to Treat Spasticity in Children With Cerebral Palsy
The goal of this clinical trial is to help understand spinal cord excitability in children with cerebral palsy compared to neurologically typical children. The main questions it aims to answer are: * What are the mechanisms of spinal circuit hyperexcitability in CP? * Can transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation reduce spinal circuit hyperexcitability? Participants with cerebral palsy will be asked to complete: * Movement and strength exercises * Mild, non-invasive stimulation on the back and legs that feels like a light tap. * Gentle, non-invasive tests that help us see how the brain and the spinal cord communicate with the muscles
⁃ A. Patient-Participant Group (Children with Cerebral Palsy)
• Children aged 5 to 17 years with a confirmed diagnosis of cerebral palsy.
• Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) Levels I to IV, able to walk with or without assistance (walker or cane). This classification will have been completed by Dr. Martin Piazza and his Movement Disorders clinic team.
• Stable medical condition without recent surgeries or interventions that could affect motor function.
• Must be able to communicate basic needs and follow simple instructions.
• Provision of informed consent by a parent or legal guardian, with assent from the child as appropriate.
⁃ B. Control Group (Children without Neurological Diagnoses)
• Children aged 5 to 17 years with no history of neurological diagnoses.
• Must be fully ambulatory without assistance.
• Must be able to communicate basic needs and follow simple instructions.
• Provision of informed consent by a parent or legal guardian, with assent from the child as appropriate.