Improving balance in Parkinson's disease using blood flow restriction

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 blood flow restriction (BFR) during balance-challenging strengthening exercises, known as instability resistance training (IRT), on individuals with Parkinson's disease. Participants will be divided into two groups: one performing IRT with BFR and the other performing IRT without BFR. Each session will last approximately 45 minutes, and researchers will assess improvements in walking ability, balance, and endurance. Additionally, non-invasive peripheral nerve stimulation techniques will be used to measure spinal excitability in participants.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Males and females between the ages 40 - 85 with a diagnosis of idiopathic Parkinson's Disease (PD) consistent with the United Kingdom PD society brain bank criteria,
2. in Hoehn and Yahr stage 2-4,
3. a score of ≥23 on the mini-Mental Scale Examination.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. History of cardiovascular disease, uncontrolled hypertension (blood pressure ≥140/90 mmHg), orthostatic hypotension, deep-vein thrombosis, varicose veins, or rhabdomyolysis;
2. Ankle branchial index ≤ 0.9 or \> 1.3.
3. History of other neurological disorders affecting the central nervous system such as stroke, multiple sclerosis, tumors, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis or muscle disease such as muscular dystrophy, myopathy.
4. History of uncontrolled diabetes, severe osteoporosis, or cognitive impairment.
5. Body mass index above 40; such individuals are more likely to have poorer muscle function and more pain.
6. Absolute contraindications to exercise as per the American College of Sports Medicine (uncontrolled arrhythmias, third-degree heart block, recent electrocardiogram (EKG) changes, unstable angina, acute myocardial infarction, or acute congestive heart failure
7. Had surgery in the lower extremities within the past 6 months.
8. Pre-menopausal and not on birth control
9. Pregnant or planning to become pregnant within the course of the study
10. Plan to have major surgery within 2 months.

Where it's running

• University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
  San Antonio, Texas, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Anjali Sivaramakrishnan, PhD, PT — The University of Texas Health Science Center at San Antonio
• Study coordinator: Anjali Sivaramakrishnan, PhD, PT
• Email: sivaramakris@uthscsa.edu
• Phone: 210-567-8626

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Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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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.