Improving ankle strength and walking ability after stroke

Paired Associative Stimulation to Facilitate Plantarflexor Power Following Stroke

['FUNDING_OTHER'] · VA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA HEALTH CARE SYS · NIH-10988322

This study is looking at how a special type of stimulation can help improve ankle movement in people who have had a stroke, with the goal of making it easier for them to walk and enjoy a better quality of life.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_OTHER']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorVA NORTHERN CALIFORNIA HEALTH CARE SYS (nih funded)
Locations1 site (MATHER, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10988322 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates how paired associative stimulation (PAS) can enhance the effectiveness of the corticospinal tract, which is crucial for ankle movement, in individuals who have experienced a stroke. By focusing on neuroplasticity, the study aims to improve ankle plantarflexor power, which is essential for walking function. Participants will undergo targeted stimulation to assess its impact on both neural responses and biomechanical outcomes, ultimately seeking to enhance their mobility and quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who have chronic post-stroke hemiparesis and experience difficulties with walking.

Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing significant walking dysfunction or those who have not had a stroke may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved walking ability and independence for stroke survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results with similar neuroplasticity approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.

Where this research is happening

MATHER, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.