Training to improve walking balance for stroke survivors

Movement Amplification Training to Enhance Walking Balance Post-Stroke

NIH-funded research Northwestern University at Chicago · NIH-10725856

This study is all about helping people who have had a stroke walk better and feel more balanced by using a special robot while they walk on a treadmill, making it easier for them to notice and fix any wobbles in their steps.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionNorthwestern University at Chicago NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Chicago, United States)
Project IDNIH-10725856 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on helping individuals who have experienced a stroke improve their walking balance, which is often compromised. The approach involves using a specially designed cable-driven robot that creates a Movement Amplification Environment (MAE) during treadmill walking. This environment applies lateral forces to the pelvis, helping participants better perceive and correct their movement errors. The study will assess both immediate and long-term effects of this training on walking balance and daily walking activities.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have experienced a chronic stroke and struggle with walking balance.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had a stroke or those with acute stroke conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the walking balance and independence of stroke survivors.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using robotic assistance for gait training, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Chicago, 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.
Conditions Disease Frequency Surveys
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.