Understanding how cognitive impairment affects walking after a stroke
Cognition as a Moderator of Motor Learning Post-stroke
This study looks at how thinking problems after a stroke affect walking skills in older adults to find better ways to help them walk again.
Quick facts
| Phase | Early Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 65 (estimated) |
| Ages | 45 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Southern California Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Los Angeles, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT04829071 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project investigates the relationship between cognitive impairment and motor learning in older adults who have experienced a stroke. It employs a combination of biomechanical analyses, neuropsychological assessments, and brain imaging techniques to explore how the severity of cognitive impairment influences two types of motor learning: explicit and implicit. The study specifically examines the role of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in this relationship. The ultimate goal is to develop more effective rehabilitation strategies to improve walking abilities in stroke survivors.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are older adults who have had a unilateral stroke more than six months ago and are independently ambulatory.
Not a fit: Patients with significant cognitive deficits, dementia, or those who have had brainstem or cerebellar strokes may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation techniques that enhance walking function in older adults recovering from stroke.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in understanding the relationship between cognition and motor learning, but this specific approach is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Unilateral stroke * Stroke occurred more than 6 months prior * Paresis confined to one side * Independently ambulatory (including the use of assistive devices) * Able to walk for 5 minutes without stopping * Answers no to all general health questions on the PAR-Q+ * Willingness to complete study procedures Exclusion Criteria: * Brainstem or cerebellar stroke * Aphasia (expressive, receptive, or global) * Any major musculoskeletal or non-stroke neurological condition that interferes with the assessment of sensorimotor or cognitive function * Metal in the head (except in the mouth), implanted cranial or thoracic devices that violate MRI safety regulations * Uncontrolled hypertension (\>160/110mmHg) * Concurrent physical therapy * Claustrophobia * Significant cognitive deficit or dementia (\<20 on MoCA) * Inability to give informed consent
Where this trial is running
Los Angeles, California
- Center for Health Professions — Los Angeles, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kristan Leech, PT, DPT, PhD — University of Southern California
- Study coordinator: Kristan Leech, PT, DPT, PhD
- Email: kleech@pt.usc.edu
- Phone: (323) 442-1583
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.