Training to improve walking in patients with spinal disorders
Precision Medicine in the Rehabilitation of Locomotor Function: Individual Gait Profiles for Deficit-specific Training Strategies in Spinal Disorders
This study is testing a special walking training program to help people with spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis improve their ability to walk better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 56 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Zurich Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Zürich) |
| Trial ID | NCT04292717 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study focuses on enhancing walking function in individuals with spinal cord injuries and multiple sclerosis through targeted gait training. It aims to address the diverse impairments in locomotion caused by various factors such as muscle weakness and sensory deficits. By utilizing advanced techniques like three-dimensional movement analysis, the study seeks to identify key determinants of gait dysfunction and develop evidence-based training programs tailored to individual needs. The goal is to establish standardized approaches for rehabilitation in this heterogeneous patient population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18-80 with chronic spinal cord injuries or specific types of multiple sclerosis who can walk without assistance but have impaired walking function.
Not a fit: Patients with current orthopedic issues, major cardiac or pulmonary conditions, or those experiencing severe mental health issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve walking abilities and overall quality of life for patients with spinal disorders.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar gait training approaches, indicating potential for success in this area.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-80 years * Diagnosis of chronic spinal cord injury (\>6 months cervical or thoracic motor incomplete traumatic or non-traumatic (AIS C, D) above T12 or diagnosis of either primary- progressive, secondary-progressive, or relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis as defined by the revised McDonald criteria for at least 3 months and with at least one spinal cord lesion as verified in clinical MRI images * Able to walk without assistance or devices on the treadmill and 10m over ground, but must have impaired walking function as demonstrated by neurological examination. Exclusion Criteria: * Women who are pregnant or breast feeding * Current orthopaedic problems of lower limbs * History of major cardiac condition (e.g., infarction, insufficiency (NYHA II-IV)) * History of major pulmonary condition (e.g., chronic obstructive pulmonary disease GOLD II-IV) * Current major depression or psychosis * MS exacerbation within 3 months prior to the screening or at any time during the screening period * Participation in another training study
Where this trial is running
Zürich
- Universitätsklinik Balgrist — Zürich, Switzerland (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Björn Zörner, PD Dr.
- Email: bjoern.zoerner@balgrist.ch
- Phone: +41 44 386 11 11
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.