Using Action Observation Therapy to Improve Balance and Walking in Multiple Sclerosis Patients

The Effects of Action Observation Therapy (AOT) on Balance and Gait in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis.

Not applicable Interventional Shiraz University of Medical Sciences · NCT05543213

This study tests if watching videos of healthy people moving can help improve balance and walking in people with Multiple Sclerosis.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment28 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 45 Years
SexAll
SponsorShiraz University of Medical Sciences Academic / other
Locations1 site (Shiraz, Fars)
Trial IDNCT05543213 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of Action Observation Therapy (AOT) on improving balance and gait in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). AOT involves patients watching videos of healthy individuals performing purposeful movements, which activates mirror neurons and aids in motor retraining. Following the observation, patients will practice the movements to enhance their mobility. The study aims to provide a low-cost and accessible rehabilitation method for MS patients suffering from movement disorders.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with spastic primary progressive, secondary progressive, or relapsing-remitting MS, with an EDSS score between 3 and 6.

Not a fit: Patients with recent MS relapses, severe psychiatric disorders, or other significant neurological or orthopedic conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this therapy could significantly improve the quality of life for patients with Multiple Sclerosis by enhancing their balance and walking abilities.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown the effectiveness of Action Observation Therapy in treating other neurological disorders, suggesting potential success in this novel application for MS.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of spastic primary progressive, secondary progressive, relapsing-remitting MS
* EDSS (Extensive Disability Status Scale) Score between 3 and 6
* MMSE (Mini-mental state examination) test score\> 24

Exclusion Criteria:

* Recurrence of MS during 3 months before intervention
* Pregnancy and lactation
* Having a psychiatric disorder or drug/alcohol abuse
* Changes in the symptoms of MS during the study period
* Inability to sit without torso support
* Inability to stand for at least 10 seconds with support
* Other neurological or orthopedic diseases of the lower extremities (musculoskeletal diseases, severe osteoarthritis, peripheral neuropathy, joint replacement)
* Cardiovascular diseases (recent myocardial infarction, heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension, orthostatic hypotension)
* participation in other clinical studies

Where this trial is running

Shiraz, Fars

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions Multiple SclerosisAction ObservationgaitBalance
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.