Using aerobic exercise to improve recovery after a stroke
Priming the Rehabilitation Engine: Aerobic Exercise as the Fuel to Spark Behavioral Improvements in Stroke
['FUNDING_OTHER'] · RALPH H JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER · NIH-11056687
This study is looking at how doing aerobic exercise before rehabilitation activities, like playing a virtual reality game, can help stroke survivors recover better by improving their movement, thinking, and mood.
Quick facts
| Phase | ['FUNDING_OTHER'] |
|---|---|
| Study type | Nih_funding |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | RALPH H JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER (nih funded) |
| Locations | 1 site (CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES) |
| Trial ID | NIH-11056687 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this research studies
This research investigates how aerobic exercise can enhance recovery for stroke survivors by improving their functional, cognitive, and psychological outcomes. The approach involves priming patients with aerobic exercise before they engage in targeted rehabilitation activities, specifically using a virtual reality game designed to aid upper extremity recovery. By increasing levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and enhancing neuroplasticity, the study aims to create a more favorable environment for rehabilitation. Participants will engage in aerobic activities paired with rehabilitation exercises to assess the effectiveness of this combined approach.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are veterans who have experienced a stroke and are seeking to improve their recovery through innovative rehabilitation methods.
Not a fit: Patients who have not experienced a stroke or those with severe comorbidities that prevent participation in aerobic exercise may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to improved rehabilitation outcomes and quality of life for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in using aerobic exercise to enhance rehabilitation outcomes in stroke patients, indicating that this approach has potential for success.
Where this research is happening
CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES
- RALPH H JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER — CHARLESTON, UNITED STATES (ACTIVE)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: ROSS, RYAN — RALPH H JOHNSON VA MEDICAL CENTER
- Study coordinator: ROSS, RYAN
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 below.