Learning a new walking pattern through exercise after stroke
Feedback and Cognition During Locomotor Learning Post Stroke
NA · University of Delaware · NCT03726047
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
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Delaware (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Newark, Delaware) |
| Trial ID | NCT03726047 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
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.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve walking rehabilitation outcomes for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific approach of combining exercise with motor learning is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Newark, Delaware
- 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
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.
Conditions: Stroke