Training program to improve health for wheelchair users
Official title: Wheelchair User Physical Activity Training Intervention to Enhance Cardiometabolic Health (WATCH): A Community-based Randomized Control Trial
Run by Washington University School of Medicine · NCT06013046 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new training program to help wheelchair users improve their health by being more active and seeing if it works better than just providing education and support.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 108 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Washington University School of Medicine Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (St Louis, Missouri) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 10, 2023 |
| Main results expected | October 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | October 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | January 29, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06013046 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18 and older who use a wheelchair due to a physical disability and engage in limited physical activity.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients who are medically unstable, have recent cardiovascular complications, or are currently pregnant may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study aims to enhance cardiometabolic health outcomes for wheelchair users by implementing a community-based, intensity-controlled physical activity training intervention. It compares the effectiveness of this training program to an education and access group, focusing on improving physical activity levels and identifying barriers to participation. The study will also explore various factors that may influence engagement in physical activity among wheelchair users, such as age, race, and motivation. By tailoring interventions to this population, the research seeks to provide insights into effective strategies for promoting physical activity and preventing health-related diseases.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the cardiometabolic health of wheelchair users, reducing their risk of obesity and related diseases.
How similar studies have gone: Other studies have shown promise in community-based interventions for improving health outcomes in disabled populations, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 years or older * Has a physical disability requiring the use of a wheelchair (includes manual wheelchairs, motorized wheelchairs, motor-assisted wheelchairs, and electric scooters) * Ability to attend weekly exercise sessions in person * Ability to independently move one or both upper extremities * Has participated in no more than 60 minutes of moderate-intensity physical activity per week in the past month * English-speaking * Able to provide informed consent * Ability to complete a valid V02max score with 2 attempts Exclusion Criteria: * Determination by their physician to be medically unstable * Has had cardiovascular complications within the past year or unstable heart disease * Currently receiving medical treatment for an acute injury * Presence of a stage IV pressure injury * Currently pregnant or suspect pregnancy
Where it's running
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Washington University School of Medicine
St Louis, Missouri, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kerri A Morgan, PhD — Washington University School of Medicine
- Study coordinator: Kimberly A Walker, OTD
- Email: walker.k@wustl.edu
- Phone: 314-273-7010
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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.