Improving balance in people with Multiple Sclerosis using EMG biofeedback training
Official title: Integrated Dual-task EMG Biofeedback Balance Training to Improve Balance in Individuals Living with Multiple Sclerosis
Run by McMaster University · NCT06461741 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a new balance training method using muscle feedback can help people with Multiple Sclerosis improve their balance better than regular exercises.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 46 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | McMaster University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hamilton, Ontario) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | July 2026 |
| Study ends | July 2027 |
| Registry record updated | December 3, 2024 |
| Trial ID | NCT06461741 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-80 with a formal diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis who experience walking and balance difficulties.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with cognitive deficits, visual disorders, or those unable to maintain stable pharmaceutical treatments may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to evaluate the effectiveness of a dual-task EMG biofeedback training method in enhancing balance for individuals with Multiple Sclerosis. Participants will be divided into two groups, one receiving EMG biofeedback training and the other undergoing traditional balance exercises, with both groups participating in 18 sessions over six weeks. The study will assess whether the EMG biofeedback training provides lasting balance improvements compared to traditional methods and how these benefits may vary based on the severity of the participants' disabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve balance and reduce fall risk in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in using biofeedback techniques for balance improvement, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18-80 years with a formal diagnosis of MS. * Participants must be ambulatory and report problems with walking and/or balance. * Have stable disease with no relapses in the last 3 months. * Agreement to not introduce or change the dosage of pharmaceutical treatments during the study period. This includes intramuscular injections (e.g., Botox), intravenous, and orally administered drugs. * Agreement to maintain the frequency, duration and intensity of physical therapy or any alternate therapies (e.g., massage, osteopathic, chiropractic, etc.) for the duration of the trial. Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to follow instructions due to cognitive deficit or language barrier * Presence of visual disorders that prevent meaningful interaction with the intervention interface. * Unable to maintain stable pharmaceutical treatment for the duration of the study. * Unable to maintain the frequency, duration and intensity of physical therapy or alternate therapies outside of the trial for the duration of the trial. * Received Botox treatment within 3 months of the onset of the study.
Where it's running
-
McMaster University
Hamilton, Ontario, Canada Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Aimee J Nelson, PhD
- Email: nelsonaj@mcmaster.ca
- Phone: 905 525 9140
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.