Task-specific physical therapy for severe multiple sclerosis

The Effect of Task Specific Physical Therapy for Persons With Advanced Multiple Sclerosis

This study tests if a special type of physical therapy can help people with severe multiple sclerosis improve their ability to stand, balance, and move in bed.

Quick facts

• Phase: NA
• Study type: Interventional
• Enrollment: 15 (estimated)
• Ages: 18 Years to 75 Years
• Sex: All
• Sponsor: Hunter College of City University of New York (other)
• Locations: 1 site (New York, New York)
• Trial ID: NCT06506929 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the feasibility, safety, and efficacy of task-specific physical therapy for individuals with severe multiple sclerosis (MS). Ten participants diagnosed with severe MS will engage in one-hour physical therapy sessions twice a week for six weeks, focusing on improving standing, balancing, and bed mobility. The study aims to provide a targeted approach to therapy, as previous research has primarily focused on individuals with mild to moderate MS. The findings will contribute to the understanding of effective treatments for those with severe disabilities due to MS.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals with a definitive diagnosis of multiple sclerosis and an Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of 7.0-8.0.

Not a fit: Patients who have experienced an MS exacerbation in the four weeks prior to the study or have other conditions that interfere with participation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a new, effective physical therapy approach for patients with severe multiple sclerosis, improving their mobility and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown the effectiveness of task-specific physical therapy in other neurological disorders, but this approach has not been extensively tested in individuals with severe MS.

Eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria:

1. definitive diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis
2. Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) of 7.0-8.0
3. Ability to read, understand , and sign an informed consent -

Exclusion Criteria:

1. evidence of MS exacerbation in the 4 weeks prior to starting the study
2. any orthopedic, cardiopulmonary, or non-MS neurologic symptoms that will interfere with their ability to participate in the study

Where this trial is running

New York, New York

• Hunter College, Physical Therapy Department, City University of New York — New York, New York, United States (RECRUITING)

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Herbert Karpatkin — Hunter College of City University of New York
• Study coordinator: Herbert Karpatkin, DSc

Conditions: Multiple Sclerosis