Breathing low oxygen levels to improve strength in people with multiple sclerosis

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia (AIH) on individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) by exposing them to brief periods of low oxygen levels, akin to high-altitude conditions. The goal is to understand how AIH may enhance strength and promote neuroplasticity in the brain, particularly in relation to motor control. Participants will undergo assessments of brain activation and ankle strength before and after the AIH intervention, utilizing advanced neuroimaging techniques to explore the underlying mechanisms of this approach.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnoses of relapsing form of MS (including relapsing-remitting MS and secondary-progressive MS)
* Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of at least 3 and no more than 6.5
* Motor Functional System Scale (FSS) between 2-4
* Relapse free for at least 1 year
* Age ≥ 18 years and ≤ 75 years
* Safe to be scanned based on MRI questionnaire
* Participants using dalfampridine will be eligible if taking the same daily dose for at least 2 months prior to screening

Exclusion Criteria:

* Active contrast-enhancing MS lesions, or diffusion positive lesions suggestive of acute cerebrovascular disease on baseline MRI scan
* Uncontrolled hypertension (Systolic between 85 and 140, diastolic between 90 and 55)
* History of epilepsy
* Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
* Uncontrolled Sleep apnea
* Pregnancy

Where it's running

• Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
  Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Milap Sandhu, Pt, PhD — Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
• Study coordinator: Alexander Barry, MS, CCRC
• Email: abarry@sralab.org
• Phone: 3122381435

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.