DiSCIoser: Improving Arm Sensorimotor Functions After Spinal Cord Injury Via Brain-Computer Interface Training

For the purposes of this study we adapted an available BCI-supported motor imagery (MI) training station, equipped with a computer, a commercial wireless Electroencephalography (EEG)/ Electromyography (EMG) system, a screen for therapist feedback and a screen for the real-time ecological feedback to patient - a custom software program that provides a for (personalized) visual representation of the patient's own hands. This software allows the therapists to create an artificial reproduction of patient's hands/forearms by adjusting a digitally created image in shape, size, skin colour and orientation to match as much as possible the real patient hands/forearms. Training consists of the MI tasks of both hands, grasping or finger extension in separate runs. The trial length will include a constant baseline period of 4 sec and a task period of maximally 10 sec for BCI intervention group. Each training session will consist of 4 runs (20 trials each).

Training consists of MI tasks of both hands, grasping or finger extension in separate runs. MI training will be delivered with a dose/setting regimen equivalent to EXP intervention. The trial length will include a constant baseline period of 4 sec and a task period of maximally 4 sec. Each training session will consist of 4 runs (20 trials each).