Exercise rehabilitation for wheelchair users with multiple sclerosis

Randomized Pilot Study Evaluating the Effect of a 6-Month Exercise Rehabilitation Program on Physical and Cognitive Function in Persons With MS Who Use Wheelchairs as a Primary Mobility Device

Not applicable Interventional University of Illinois at Chicago · NCT06410261

This study tests a personalized exercise program for wheelchair users with multiple sclerosis to see if it can help them feel stronger and improve their daily activities.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment24 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Illinois at Chicago Academic / other
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT06410261 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates a personalized exercise rehabilitation program designed for individuals with multiple sclerosis (MS) who primarily use wheelchairs for mobility. The program aims to enhance muscular strength and improve physical function, potentially reducing fatigue associated with daily activities. Participants will engage in a 6-month exercise regimen, and outcomes will be assessed in terms of physical function, health-related quality of life, and cognitive performance. The research seeks to fill a gap in existing literature regarding exercise interventions for this specific population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults over 18 with a diagnosis of MS who use a wheelchair for mobility but can still walk at least 50 feet with an assistive device.

Not a fit: Patients who do not use a wheelchair as their primary mobility device or those unable to walk at least 50 feet will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the physical function and quality of life for wheelchair users with MS.

How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically targeting wheelchair users with MS, similar exercise rehabilitation programs have shown success in other chronic conditions, suggesting potential for positive outcomes.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* diagnosis of MS
* age above 18 years
* no relapse within last 30 days
* use of wheelchair for mobility in the community
* ability to walk at least 50 feet (or 65 steps) using an assistive device
* low risk for contraindications of physical activity indicated by no more than a single "yes"
* response on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q)
* willingness to complete the assessments and undergo randomization

Exclusion Criteria:

* no diagnosis of MS
* less than 18 years of age
* not relapse-free within the last 30 days
* no use of wheelchair as primary mobility device
* no ability to walk for at least 50 feet (or 65 steps)
* high risk for contraindications based on more than a single "yes" response on the PAR-Q
* not willing to complete the testing procedures and undergo randomization

Where this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Multiple SclerosisExerciseRehabilitationPhysical functionCognition
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.