High intensity training's effects on motor and cognitive functions in MS patients

Evaluation of the Impact of Experimentally Induced Fatigability on Motor and Cognitive Functions. Effect of High Intensity Training on Motor and Cognitive Functions:a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial

Not applicable Interventional Fondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus · NCT06219304

This study tests if high intensity training can help people with Multiple Sclerosis improve their walking, balance, and thinking skills while managing fatigue better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorFondazione Don Carlo Gnocchi Onlus Academic / other
Locations1 site (Milan, MI)
Trial IDNCT06219304 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the impact of high intensity functional training on motor and cognitive functions in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). It aims to assess how reducing fatigability through structured training can influence walking, balance, and cognitive performance, utilizing advanced wearable devices for objective measurement. Participants will undergo multimodal functional training compared to usual care, with a focus on understanding the relationship between fatigue and performance in dual task scenarios. The study seeks to fill gaps in current knowledge regarding the effects of fatigability on MS patients' daily functioning.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 with a clinical diagnosis of stable Multiple Sclerosis and an EDSS score between 1.5 and 6.

Not a fit: Patients experiencing an MS relapse, severe joint disorders, or other neurological diseases may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved treatment strategies for enhancing mobility and cognitive function in MS patients.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with high intensity training in MS, but this specific approach focusing on fatigability and dual tasks is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* More than 18 years of age
* Clinical diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS)
* Stable disease course without worsening more than 1 EDSS point over the last 3 months, -EDSS between 1.5 and 6 points
* Must be able to maintain upright posture without any assistance for 30 seconds
* Must be able to release a written informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

* MS relapse within the previous three months;
* Unable to comprehend the aims of the study and to follow test instructions;
* Diagnosis of major depression (DSM-5);
* Severe joint and/or bone disorders interfering with balance and gait (based upon clinical judgment);
* Cardiovascular diseases;
* Unconfirmed or uncertain diagnosis of MS (McDonald criteria)
* Other concomitant neurological disease;
* Patients already performing aerobic or walking exercise.

Where this trial is running

Milan, MI

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 Sclerosisfatiguebalance
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.