Predicting stroke rehabilitation outcomes with exercise

What Makes a Responder, a Responder? Biomarkers to Help Identify Responders and Resistors to High-intensity Interval Training for Lower Extremity Chronic Stroke

Not applicable Interventional VA Office of Research and Development · NCT06059872

This study is testing if certain tests can help figure out which stroke survivors with leg disabilities will benefit from a special exercise program to improve their walking and overall function.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment55 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 89 Years
SexAll
SponsorVA Office of Research and Development Federal
Locations1 site (Decatur, Georgia)
Trial IDNCT06059872 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to develop a predictive model to identify which stroke survivors with lower limb disabilities will benefit from high-intensity interval training (HIIT) rehabilitation. By analyzing biomarkers such as blood lactate levels, GABA concentrations, and regional cerebral blood flow, the researchers seek to enhance personalized rehabilitation strategies for chronic subcortical stroke patients. The study will also consider various factors including comorbidities, demographics, and fitness levels to tailor interventions effectively. The ultimate goal is to improve walking speed and overall function in these patients.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are Veterans who have experienced a chronic subcortical stroke and have lower extremity motor impairments affecting their walking speed.

Not a fit: Patients with neurodegenerative conditions other than stroke or those with contraindications for MRI may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective rehabilitation strategies for stroke survivors, enhancing their mobility and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using biomarkers to predict rehabilitation outcomes is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing personalized rehabilitation strategies.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* chronic left or right subcortical stroke as defined by 6 months or more after a cardiovascular accident
* lower extremity motor impairment due to stroke that causes a walking speed of less than 0.6 m/s during a 10m walk
* Veteran status

Exclusion Criteria:

* MRI contraindications, including implanted cardiac pacemakers and severe claustrophobia
* any neurodegenerative condition other than stroke that may lead to lower extremity impairment
* a visual or auditory impairment that may hinder study procedures
* any medical condition that would preclude participation in a physical exercise intervention program

Where this trial is running

Decatur, Georgia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions StrokeStroke RehabilitationLower Extremity Weakness, SpasticWalking, DifficultyPredictors of Stroke RehabilitationBiomarkers of Stroke RehabilitationExercise InterventionNeuroimaging
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.