Neck and shoulder strength training for cervical dystonia
Official title: Progressive resistance exercise and dystonia pathophysiology.
Funded at University of Florida · NIH-11173596 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This project tests whether a progressive resistance exercise program for neck and shoulder muscles can change brain function and help people with cervical (neck) dystonia.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Florida NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Gainesville, United States) |
| Project start | September 1, 2022 |
| Project end | August 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $511,192 |
| NIH project number | 5R01NS122943-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-11173596 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Adults with focal cervical dystonia (neck dystonia) who can participate in supervised exercise and attend visits at the study site are the best candidates.
✕Less likely to help
People with other forms of dystonia, those unable to perform resistance exercise, or individuals with contraindications to MRI or TMS may not benefit or be eligible.
What this research studies
If I join, I would be randomly placed into a group that does a progressive resistance exercise program for the neck and shoulders alongside my usual care, or into a group that continues usual care alone. The supervised exercise program (called PERFECT) emphasizes gradually increasing strength training focused on the affected muscles. Researchers will use brain scans (fMRI) and noninvasive brain stimulation (TMS) to look for changes in brain activity and control that happen with the training. They will compare symptom control, muscle function, and daily activities between the two groups to learn who is most likely to benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: This approach could improve neck muscle control and symptoms for people with cervical dystonia and help tailor rehabilitation based on brain changes.
How similar studies have gone: Prior studies using stretching and relaxation showed modest and variable benefits, while progressive resistance training combined with brain imaging is a newer, less-tested approach.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Florida
Gainesville, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wagle Shukla, Aparna — University of Florida
- Study coordinator: Wagle Shukla, Aparna
Related research
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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.