Low-Load BFR Training to Help People with Advanced MS Improve Strength
Official title: Low-Load Resistance Training with Blood Flow Restriction in People with Multiple Sclerosis and Advanced Disability: A Randomized Control Trial
Funded at VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System · NIH-11418736 · Data updated 2026-11-12
A randomized trial tests whether low-load resistance training with blood flow restriction can improve muscle strength for people with advanced multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Aurora, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | November 1, 2022 |
| Project end | October 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2027 |
| NIH project number | 5IK2RX004242-05 |
| Project ID | NIH-11418736 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with advanced MS who require assistance walking or use a wheelchair and can safely participate in guided resistance training.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who cannot participate in any form of resistance training or have contraindications to blood flow restriction may not benefit.
What this research studies
This study focuses on people with advanced MS who need assistance to walk or use a wheelchair. It tests a safe, low-intensity exercise approach (with blood flow restriction) to build strength, aiming to boost mobility and daily function. The researchers will compare this approach to standard care to see if it produces better gains in muscle strength and quality of life. The plan builds on prior evidence that lighter workouts with BFR can match the benefits of heavier exercise in other conditions, but now targets advanced MS under supervision at the VA East Central Health Care System. If successful, the results could offer a practical exercise option for a population with limited tolerance for intense training.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients with advanced MS may gain stronger muscles and better function with a safer, lighter workout.
How similar studies have gone: Previous work suggests low-load training with BFR can increase strength in various conditions, but evidence in advanced MS is limited.
Where this research is happening
-
VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System
Aurora, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Manago, Mark M — VA Eastern Colorado Health Care System
- Study coordinator: Manago, Mark M
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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.