Learning a new walking pattern through exercise after stroke
Official title: Feedback and Cognition During Locomotor Learning Post Stroke
Run by University of Delaware · NCT03726047 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if adding a short exercise session after learning a new walking pattern can help stroke survivors remember how to walk better both right away and the next day.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Delaware Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, Delaware) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | December 1, 2019 |
| Main results expected | January 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | February 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 20, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT03726047 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-85 who have experienced a single, unilateral stroke more than six months ago and can walk independently.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with cerebellar strokes, other neurological conditions, or those unable to walk prior to their stroke 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 focuses on individuals with chronic stroke who will learn a new walking pattern using distorted visual feedback. Participants will be randomly assigned to either a control group, which will perform the learning task alone, or an exercise group, which will engage in 5 minutes of exercise after the initial retention test. The goal is to assess how exercise influences the retention of the learned walking pattern both immediately and 24 hours later. By personalizing rehabilitation based on individual factors, the study aims to enhance motor learning and improve walking capacity in stroke survivors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve walking rehabilitation outcomes for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have gone: While the specific approach of combining exercise with motor learning is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Age 18-85 Single, unilateral, chronic stroke (\>6 months post-stroke), confirmed by MRI or CT scan Score \>1 on question 1b and \>0 on question 1c of the NIH Stroke Scale Able to walk at self-selected speed without assistance from another person Resting heart rate between 40-100 beats per minute Resting blood pressure between 90/60 to 185/100 Exclusion Criteria: Evidence of cerebellar stroke on clinical MRI or CT scan, because of role of cerebellum in learning Other neurologic conditions in addition to stroke Inability to walk outside the home prior to the stroke Coronary artery bypass graft or myocardial infarction within past 3 months, Musculoskeletal pain that limits walking Inability to communicate with investigators Visual field cut Neglect Unexplained dizziness in last 6 months
Where it's running
-
University of Delaware
Newark, Delaware, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Darcy Reisman, PhD — University of Delaware
- Study coordinator: Darcy Reisman, PhD
- Email: dreisman@udel.edu
- Phone: 3028310508
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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This study is testing whether using a patient's own stem cells can help people with long-term stroke recovery feel better and improve their daily functioning.
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Web-based therapy using action observation and mirror therapy for arm weakness after stroke
This trial tests whether a mobile telerehabilitation app delivering action observation therapy (AOT) alone or combined AOT with mirror therapy (AOT-MT) can improve upper limb function in people with subacute stroke.
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Remote Ischaemic Conditioning for Fatigue After Stroke 2
Aat least 12 weeks after stroke, adults with post-stroke fatigue will try a simple hand-arm cuff treatment at home to see if it helps reduce fatigue.
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Dual-task balance training plus computer-based cognitive training after stroke
In adults who recently had a stroke, the study tests whether adding computerized cognitive exercises to balance training improves balance and other recovery outcomes.
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.