Music-enhanced rhythmic walking for people with multiple sclerosis
Official title: Music-Augmented Versus Non-Music Technology-Based Rhythmic Gait Training in Multiple Sclerosis: A Randomized Controlled Trial of Gait Performance and Clinical Outcomes
Run by Biruni University · NCT07399262 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial will test whether adding music to remote rhythmic walking exercises helps adults with mild-to-moderate multiple sclerosis walk, balance, and feel less fatigued.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Biruni University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Istanbul, Zeytinburnu) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 20, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | July 30, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | February 10, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07399262 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with a confirmed MS diagnosis, EDSS 0–4, MoCA ≥21, functional ambulation stage ≥3, internet access via a smartphone or computer, and no recent relapses or other major comorbidities.
✕Probably not a fit
People with more advanced disability (EDSS >4), significant hearing or vision impairments, unstable medical conditions, recent MS relapse or treatment changes, or those already in structured exercise programs are unlikely to benefit from this protocol.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized controlled trial will enroll 32 adults with MS and mild-to-moderate disability (EDSS 0–4) who meet cognitive and ambulation screening criteria. Participants will be randomly assigned to four weeks of telerehabilitation-delivered rhythmic gait training either with music or without music, with both groups following the same supervised exercise program. Outcomes measured before and after the intervention include gait performance, balance, fatigue, and cognitive function. Results will compare change scores between the music-assisted and non-music groups to determine whether music adds measurable benefit.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, adding music to rhythmic gait training could improve walking speed, balance, and reduce fatigue for people with mild-to-moderate MS.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on rhythmic auditory stimulation and music-based gait training in MS and other neurologic conditions has shown moderate improvements in gait and motor coordination, though telerehabilitation delivery is less well-studied.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score between 0 and 4.0 Access to the internet via a high-speed smartphone or computer A score of at least 21 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) Functional Ambulation Scale score of Stage 3 or higher Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of hearing or visual impairments Current participation in any structured exercise program Presence of other neurological, cardiovascular, or orthopedic disorders History of MS relapse or change in disease-modifying treatment within the last 6 months Physical conditions preventing safe participation in the exercise program Comorbid conditions that adversely affect oxygen transport (e.g., severe anemia, peripheral arterial disease)
Where it's running
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Biruni University
Istanbul, Zeytinburnu, Turkey (Türkiye) Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Guzin Kaya Aytutuldu — Biruni University
- Study coordinator: Güzin Kaya Aytutuldu
- Email: guzinkaya14@gmail.com
- Phone: 05366265884
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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.