Remote exercise program for African-Americans with multiple sclerosis in rural areas
Promotion of Exercise Behavior Among Rural-Residing African-Americans With Multiple Sclerosis
This study tests whether a special remote exercise program can help African-Americans with multiple sclerosis living in rural areas improve their walking and overall health compared to a group doing stretching exercises.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Illinois at Chicago Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT05516537 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project investigates the effects of a remotely-delivered, racially-tailored exercise training program aimed at improving walking dysfunction, symptoms, and health-related quality of life among African-Americans with multiple sclerosis (MS) living in rural environments. The study employs a randomized controlled trial design, comparing the exercise training intervention to a control group receiving stretching exercises. The program is specifically designed to address the unique challenges faced by this population, ensuring accessibility and relevance to their needs. Participants will engage in the program from home or their local community, with outcomes assessed over a four-month follow-up period.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include African-American adults aged 18 and older with a diagnosis of multiple sclerosis who have mild to moderate ambulatory disability and limited physical activity.
Not a fit: Patients with severe ambulatory disabilities or those at high risk for exercise-related injuries may not benefit from this program.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly enhance the quality of life and mobility for African-Americans with MS living in rural areas.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research specifically targeting African-Americans with MS, similar exercise interventions have shown positive outcomes in other populations, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * English as primary language * Identify as African-American or Black * Age of 18 years or older * Diagnosis of MS * Relapse free in the past 30 days * Internet and email access * Willingness to complete the outcome questionnaires * Willingness to undergo randomization * Insufficient physical activity (not meeting current physical activity guidelines based on GLTEQ) * Mild-moderate ambulatory disability (MSWS-12 score between 25-49 \& PDDS score between 2-4) Exclusion Criteria: * Individuals not meeting above inclusion criteria * Individuals with moderate to high risk for contraindications of possible injury or death when undertaking strenuous or maximal exercise (PARQ).
Where this trial is running
Chicago, Illinois
- University of Illinois at Chicago — Chicago, Illinois, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Robert W Motl, PhD — University of Illinois at Chicago
- Study coordinator: Robert W Motl, PhD
- Email: robmotl@uic.edu
- Phone: 205-975-1306
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.