Improving walking patterns in children with cerebral palsy
Official title: Improving crouch gait in children with CP through error augmentation
Funded at Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab · NIH-10976097 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking for better ways to help children with cerebral palsy walk more easily by trying out new treatments that could improve their walking patterns and make their lives better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R21 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | August 1, 2024 |
| Project end | July 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $240,451 |
| NIH project number | 1R21HD116115-01 |
| Project ID | NIH-10976097 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years diagnosed with cerebral palsy who exhibit crouch gait.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with cerebral palsy who do not exhibit crouch gait or are outside the age range may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on addressing crouch gait, a common and debilitating walking issue in children with cerebral palsy (CP). The study aims to develop new interventions that can effectively improve gait patterns, as current treatments have shown inconsistent results. By exploring innovative approaches, the research seeks to enhance the mobility and overall quality of life for affected children. The methodology may include a combination of surgical and non-surgical techniques tailored to individual needs.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved walking abilities and greater independence for children with cerebral palsy.
How similar studies have gone: While there have been various interventions for crouch gait, this research aims to explore novel approaches that have not been extensively tested, indicating a potential for breakthrough advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wu, Ming — Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago D/b/a Shirley Ryan Abilitylab
- Study coordinator: Wu, Ming
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.