Understanding the fear of falling in people with Multiple Sclerosis

Investigating Fear of Falling in Multiple Sclerosis: An Interplay of Neural, Motor, Cognitive, and Psychological Factors

NIH-funded research Wayne State University · NIH-10993952

This study looks at how the fear of falling affects people with Multiple Sclerosis and aims to understand why this fear happens, so we can find better ways to help them feel more confident and safe on their feet.

Quick facts

Grant typeFellowship grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionWayne State University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Detroit, United States)
Project IDNIH-10993952 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how fear of falling affects individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (pwMS) by examining the interplay of neural, motor, cognitive, and psychological factors. It aims to identify the underlying causes of this fear, which impacts over 60% of pwMS, leading to reduced confidence, avoidance behaviors, and increased fall risk. By exploring the neural correlates of fear of falling, the study seeks to develop effective interventions to help pwMS regain balance confidence and improve their quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis who experience fear of falling.

Not a fit: Patients without Multiple Sclerosis or those who do not experience fear of falling may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved interventions that help pwMS manage their fear of falling, enhancing their mobility and overall quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While some research has explored the neural aspects of fear of falling in older adults, this specific focus on pwMS is relatively novel and underexplored.

Where this research is happening

Detroit, 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.
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.