Examining reflex excitability in post-stroke stiff-knee gait
Characterization of Abnormal Reflex Couplings Via H-reflex Stimulation
This study is testing how the reflexes in the thigh muscle affect walking in people who have had a stroke, especially those with stiff-knee gait, while they use a knee brace.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | MetroHealth Medical Center Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Cleveland, Ohio) |
| Trial ID | NCT04947865 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the reflex excitability of the rectus femoris muscle in individuals with and without post-stroke stiff-knee gait. It employs electrical stimulation of the peripheral nerve to assess reflex responses and their correlation with gait kinematics. The research aims to understand the role of hyperreflexia in gait function among stroke survivors, particularly focusing on those with mild to moderate impairments. Participants will be monitored while using a commercial knee brace during the study.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who are post-stroke with mild to moderate impairments and can walk continuously for 30 minutes.
Not a fit: Patients with serious lower limb injuries, significant osteoarthritis, or cognitive and vision impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies for individuals with post-stroke gait disorders.
How similar studies have performed: While similar studies have explored reflex excitability in gait disorders, this specific approach focusing on post-stroke stiff-knee gait is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion criteria: * Aged at least 18 * Premorbidly independent * If post-stroke, mild to moderate impairment determined by standard practices per the physical therapist * Able to continuously walk for 30 minutes * If post-stroke, reduced knee flexion during walking relative to unimpaired side * If post-stroke, hemiparesis * Ability to provide informed consent Exclusion criteria: * No history of serious lower limb musculoskeletal injury * No functionally relevant osteoarthritis and weight-bearing restrictions * No functionally relevant polyneuropathy * No functionally relevant cognitive impairment * No functionally relevant vision impairment
Where this trial is running
Cleveland, Ohio
- MetroHealth Medical Center — Cleveland, Ohio, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: James S Sulzer — Case Western Reserve University
- Study coordinator: James Sulzer, PhD
- Email: jss280@case.edu
- Phone: 5125419036
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.