Investigating how different focus strategies during strength training affect gait in older adults
Strength Training for Gait Rehabilitation in Older Adults: Insights From Neuroscience
This study is testing how different ways of focusing during strength training can improve walking and movement in healthy older adults.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 45 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Egas Moniz - Cooperativa de Ensino Superior, CRL Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Monte de Caparica, Almada) |
| Trial ID | NCT06538766 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial aims to explore the impact of various focus of attention strategies during strength training on plantar flexor force and gait parameters in healthy older adults. Researchers will compare the effects of internal focus versus two types of external focus (proprioceptive and visual) to determine their influence on non-linear force variability and the underlying neurophysiological mechanisms. The study will assess both acute and training effects, particularly how these focus strategies may enhance gait variability and overall mobility in older adults. Participants will engage in strength training sessions while their performance and physiological responses are monitored.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are healthy older adults who can walk unassisted and do not have significant medical conditions affecting their mobility.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cardiovascular or pulmonary diseases, neurological disorders, or those who have experienced falls in the past year may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved strength training protocols that enhance mobility and reduce fall risk in older adults.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific focus of this study may be novel, previous research has shown that different attentional strategies can influence motor performance and learning, suggesting potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: \- Signed informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cardiovascular or pulmonary disease * Oncological disease * Lower limb disabilities * Neurological disorders * Inability to walk unassisted for 12 continuous minutes * Cognitive impairment * Falls in the prior 12 months * Orthopedic concerns, which might limit force production * Metal implants * Medicine that can trigger side effects with TMS
Where this trial is running
Monte de Caparica, Almada
- Egas Moniz School of Health & Science — Monte de Caparica, Almada, Portugal (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Philipp Bauer, MSc
- Email: 117473@alunos.egasmoniz.edu.pt
- Phone: 1722831739
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.