Motor Activation Therapy after concussion: a targeted rehabilitation approach
Official title: Postural Motor Activation Deficits After mTBI; Translating Laboratory Findings to Clinical Care
Run by Oregon Health and Science University · NCT07549529 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests a motor-activation focused physical therapy for people with persistent balance problems after a concussion to see if it improves their responses to imbalance.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 80 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Oregon Health and Science University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Portland, Oregon and 1 other locations) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 30, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 30, 2029 |
| Study ends | August 30, 2029 |
| Registry record updated | September 24, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07549529 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18–60 with diagnosed mTBI/concussion, more than 2 weeks but less than 6 months since injury, and ongoing symptoms.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with non-balance-related mTBI symptoms, significant comorbidities, or those already receiving targeted motor-activation therapy may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The trial develops an exercise program aimed at improving how the body responds to imbalance after a concussion, using simple wearable sensors for objective measures. It compares a motor-activation physical therapy with standard care physical therapy in adults with recent mTBI and lingering symptoms. The study integrates clinic-friendly testing with still-practical lab-inspired assessments to track improvements in motor activation and balance. Participants will work with clinicians at OHSU and collaborating sites to complete the intervention within a structured rehabilitation framework. The information gathered will help translate research findings into a practical clinical approach for post-concussion rehab.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients may experience better balance and quicker recovery of motor responses after a concussion.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work suggests that targeted motor activation approaches show promise in improving balance-related outcomes, though this exact approach is being translated to a clinical setting.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosed mTBI (concussion) * 18-60 years of age * More than 2 weeks from the date of the most recent mTBI * Less than 6 months from the most recent mTBI * Persisting symptoms from the mTBI Exclusion Criteria: * Injury, medical, or neurological illness that could explain balance issues * Moderate to severe substance abuse in the past month * Display behavior that would interfere with safety during data collection * Significant pain during the study period (\> 7/10) * Pregnancy * Persistent use of medications that cause balance impairment during the study * Active in physical therapy services for mTBI symptoms
Where it's running
-
OHSU Balance Disorders Laboratory
Portland, Oregon, United States Recruiting -
University of Utah Neuromechanics and Applied Locomotion Laboratory
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Laurie A King, PhD, PT, MCR — Oregon Health and Science University
- Study coordinator: Maggie E Stojak, MS
- Email: concussionresearch@ohsu.edu
- Phone: 971-420-4351
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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.