Understanding how split-belt treadmill training can improve walking in people with Multiple Sclerosis
Official title: Neural Underpinnings and Sensory Feedback Augmentation During Split-belt Treadmill Training in People with Multiple Sclerosis
Funded at Colorado State University · NIH-11065218 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is looking at how walking on a special treadmill that makes each leg move at different speeds can help people with Multiple Sclerosis improve their walking, and it also tests if adding gentle electrical stimulation can make these improvements even better.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Fellowship grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Colorado State University NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Fort Collins, United States) |
| Project start | December 3, 2024 |
| Project end | September 18, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $42,021 |
| NIH project number | 1F31HD115281-01A1 |
| Project ID | NIH-11065218 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are adults diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis who experience gait difficulties.
✕Less likely to help
Patients with stable gait and no significant walking difficulties may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates how split-belt treadmill training, where each leg moves at different speeds, can help improve walking difficulties in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The study aims to explore the neural mechanisms that contribute to gait improvements and assess whether adding sensory feedback through techniques like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can enhance these benefits. Participants will engage in treadmill training while researchers monitor brain activity to understand how their bodies adapt to this unique training method.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved walking abilities and reduced fall risk for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown that split-belt treadmill training can improve gait in various populations, suggesting a promising avenue for enhancing mobility in individuals with MS.
Where this research is happening
-
Colorado State University
Fort Collins, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Hagen, Andrew Carter — Colorado State University
- Study coordinator: Hagen, Andrew Carter
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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.