Improving mobility and function after leg amputation
Official title: Improving Mobility and Function Following Transfemoral Amputation: A Novel Approach to Reverse Volumetric Muscle Loss
Run by University of Illinois Chicago · NCT05929508 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if using a blood pressure cuff can help people who have had a leg amputated get stronger and walk better.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Illinois Chicago Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | November 17, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT05929508 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who have experienced a unilateral transfemoral amputation at least two years prior and can walk independently.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with neurological disorders affecting gait or those who cannot provide informed consent 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 study investigates how thigh strength relates to walking ability in individuals who have undergone transfemoral amputation. It explores the use of a blood pressure cuff on the leg as a method to enhance strength and walking performance. The goal is to address the long-term consequences of limb loss, including pain and reduced mobility, by implementing interventions that complement prosthetic use. Participants will be assessed for their ability to ambulate independently and will engage in a regimen aimed at improving their physical capabilities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance mobility and quality of life for individuals with transfemoral amputation.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of using ischemic preconditioning is novel, similar studies targeting physical rehabilitation post-amputation have shown promising results.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * At least 18 years old * History of lower limb unilateral transfemoral amputation. * At least two years post lower limb amputation * Able to ambulate independently without the use of aids (i.e., walking cane). * Able to walk at least 10 minutes continuously without stopping. * Has a safe residuum with no open wounds on either the residual or intact limb. * Has a prosthetic limb with materials that are sound and safe to withstand the mobility requirements of the study. Exclusion Criteria: * Younger than 18 years old. * Inability to give informed consent. * Neurological disorder that affects gait. * Participants with significant metal (greater than one orthopaedic screw) in either the residual limb or the sound/intact limb * Participants who begin taking medications or change dosage of medications that could affect gait, balance, and cardiovascular function during the course of the study. * Currently pregnant (or intend to become pregnant while participating in study). * History of any condition where fatiguing contractions or resisted leg contractions are contraindicated. * Blood clots in the leg, or any condition in which compression of the thigh or transient ischemia is contraindicated (e.g. open wounds in the leg). * History of uncontrolled hypertension. * History of heart failure. * Head injury within the previous 6 months. * Seizure disorder. * History of vascular disease. * History of thrombosis. * History of sickle cell trait. * History of genetic disease
Where it's running
-
UIC Physical Therapy Faculty Practice
Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Lindsay Slater — University of Illinois Chicago
- Study coordinator: Lindsay Slater
- Email: slaterlv@uic.edu
- Phone: 3123558965
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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.