Improving blood flow and muscle function in stroke survivors

Blood Flow Regulation and Neuromuscular Function Post-Stroke

Not applicable Interventional Medical College of Wisconsin · NCT06027294

This study is testing if a special treatment can improve blood flow and help leg muscles work better for people who have had a stroke.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 85 Years
SexAll
SponsorMedical College of Wisconsin Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Milwaukee, Wisconsin and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06027294 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates how blood flow is regulated in the leg muscles of stroke survivors, focusing on the relationship between blood flow and muscle fatigue. It aims to understand the effects of ischemic conditioning, a non-invasive intervention, on muscle fatigue resistance and functional sympatholysis in stroke patients. The study will recruit 60 chronic stroke survivors and 20 age- and sex-matched controls, conducting multiple laboratory visits to assess muscle performance and fatigue. The findings could provide insights into enhancing rehabilitation strategies for stroke survivors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 18-85 who are at least six months post-diagnosis of a unilateral cortical or sub-cortical stroke.

Not a fit: Patients with conditions contraindicating ischemic conditioning, such as peripheral vascular disease or chronic pain syndromes, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation techniques that enhance muscle function and endurance in stroke survivors.

How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of ischemic conditioning in stroke survivors may be novel, similar interventions have shown promise in improving muscle function in other populations.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Be between 18-85 years of age
* Able to give informed consent
* ≥6 months post diagnosis of unilateral cortical or sub-cortical stroke
* English speaking

Exclusion Criteria:

* History of blood clots in the extremities or any condition in which compression of the thigh or transient ischemia is contraindicated (e.g. wounds in the leg)
* Chronic pain syndrome
* Low back or hip pain that interferes with lower extremity motor testing
* History of head trauma
* Comorbid neurological disorder
* Peripheral vascular disease
* Myocardial infarction in the previous year
* Inability to follow 2 step commands
* Condition where fatiguing contractions or resisted leg contractions are contraindicated
* Resting SBP ≥160 mmHg or DBP ≥ 110 mmHg
* Pregnancy or breastfeeding.

Where this trial is running

Milwaukee, Wisconsin and 1 other locations

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 Stroke
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.