Effects of walking exercise on brain function in multiple sclerosis
Acute Effects of Walking Exercise on Brain Functioning in Multiple Sclerosis
This study is testing if moderate walking exercise can improve brain function and thinking skills in people with multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | Early Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Kessler Foundation Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (West Orange, New Jersey) |
| Trial ID | NCT06233370 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates how moderate intensity walking exercise impacts brain functioning in individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS). Participants will undergo a series of cognitive tests and exercise sessions at the Kessler Foundation, where they will be trained to walk at a specific pace using a FitBit. The study employs a within-subjects design, allowing for repeated measures to assess changes in brain function pre- and post-exercise. The goal is to determine the acute effects of exercise on cognitive performance and brain activity in MS patients.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals with a clinically-definite diagnosis of MS who have been relapse-free for at least 30 days and are historically inactive prior to their diagnosis.
Not a fit: Patients with uncontrolled major psychiatric disorders or those who have been moderately active prior to their MS diagnosis may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance cognitive functioning and overall quality of life for patients with multiple sclerosis through targeted exercise interventions.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of this study may be novel, previous research has indicated that exercise can have beneficial effects on cognitive function in MS patients.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinically-definite MS diagnosis * Relapse-free for at least 30 days * Low risk for contraindications for exercise testing * Low risk for contraindications for MRI * Historically physically inactive prior to MS diagnosis * Historically highly physically active prior to MS diagnosis Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of uncontrolled major depressive disorder, schizophrenia, bipolar disorder I or II, or substance use disorders * Taking medications that can affect cognition (e.g., antipsychotics, benzodiazepines) * Historically moderately physically active prior to MS diagnosis
Where this trial is running
West Orange, New Jersey
- Kessler Foundation — West Orange, New Jersey, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Brian M Sandroff, PhD
- Email: bsandroff@kesslerfoundation.org
- Phone: 973-965-6649
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.