Training to improve balance after stroke
Optimal Intensity of Reactive Balance Training Post-stroke: a Randomized Controlled Trial
NA · Toronto Rehabilitation Institute · NCT06555016
This study is testing whether higher intensity balance training can help stroke survivors improve their balance and reduce their risk of falling faster than lower intensity training.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 63 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Toronto Rehabilitation Institute (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Toronto, Ontario) |
| Trial ID | NCT06555016 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of reactive balance training (RBT) in improving balance control and reducing fall risk in individuals who have experienced a stroke. The research aims to determine if higher intensity RBT can yield quicker improvements in balance reactions compared to lower intensity training. Participants will engage in exercises designed to challenge their balance through repeated perturbations, with the goal of enhancing their ability to react to loss of balance. The study will also explore how different training intensities affect the outcomes of balance training in stroke survivors.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals who are more than six months post-stroke and can stand and walk independently.
Not a fit: Patients who have severe cognitive impairments, other neurological conditions affecting balance, or those currently receiving physiotherapy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly reduce the risk of falls in stroke survivors, improving their overall safety and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that reactive balance training can reduce fall rates in older adults and those with neurological conditions, suggesting potential success for this approach in stroke rehabilitation.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Chronic stroke (\>6 months post-stroke) Exclusion Criteria: * Are unable to stand independently without upper-limb support for \>30 seconds and/or walk independently (without a gait aid) for ≥10 metres; * Have another neurological condition that could affect balance control (e.g., Parkinson's disease); * Have cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive Assessment8 score \<26), or severe language or communication difficulties affecting understanding instructions; * Have contraindications to RBT (has described by Mansfield et al., 2021), such as osteoporosis, activity restrictions due to cardiac event/surgery, or severe spasticity in the lower extremity; and/or * Are currently attending in- or out-patient physiotherapy or supervised exercise.
Where this trial is running
Toronto, Ontario
- Toronto Rehabilitation Institute — Toronto, Ontario, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Avril Mansfield, PhD — University Health Network, Toronto
- Study coordinator: Avril Mansfield, PhD
- Email: avril.mansfield@uhn.ca
- Phone: 416-597-3422
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.
Conditions: Accidental Fall, Stroke, Postural balance, Rehabilitation, Exercise