Using Blood Flow Restriction to Improve Upper Limb Rehabilitation in Multiple Sclerosis

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This clinical trial investigates the effects of Blood Flow Restriction Training (BFRT) combined with low-intensity muscle strengthening on upper limb strength, fatigability, dexterity, functionality, and quality of life in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either BFRT or conventional physical therapy. The study aims to determine if BFRT is more effective than traditional methods in enhancing rehabilitation outcomes for MS patients. Additionally, the trial will assess participant adherence and satisfaction with the intervention.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* \>18 years of age.
* Diagnosis of MS according to McDonald criteria (53) with a time of evolution longer than two years.
* Assessment on the Kurtzke Multiple Sclerosis Disability Status Scale (EDSS) with a score between 2. 0 (minimal disability in one section of the FS (at least one with a score of 2).) to 7.0 (unable to walk more than a few steps, even with assistance, basically confined to wheelchair and able to transfer from wheelchair to another place, or can manage to go to the toilet for 12 hours a day) .
* Stable medical treatment for at least six months prior to surgery.
* Upper extremity muscle tone no greater than 2 points (moderate hypertonia, increased muscle tone during most of the arc of motion, but can passively move the affected part with ease) on the modified Ashworth Scale.
* Muscle balance equal to or greater than 3 in the upper extremity.
* Score less than or equal to 4 points on the "Pyramidal Function" section of the EDSS functional scale.
* Absence of cognitive impairment, with ability to understand instructions and score equal to or greater than 24 on the Minimental Test.
* A score equal to or less than 2 points on the "Mental Functions" section of the EDSS.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Diagnosis of a neurological disease or musculoskeletal disorder other than MS.
* Diagnosis of a cardiovascular, respiratory or metabolic disease or other conditions that may interfere with this study.
* Having suffered an exacerbation or hospitalization in the last 3 months before starting the assessment protocol, or during the therapeutic intervention process.
* Having received a course of steroids, intravenous or oral, 6 months prior to the start of the assessment protocol and within the intervention period of the study duration.
* Having received treatment with botulinum toxin in the 6 months prior to the start of the study.
* A score higher than 2 points on the modified Ashworth scale.
* Cognitive or language impairment that prevents adequate communication or comprehension.
* Medical complications such as: history of deep vein thrombosis, pulmonary embolism, vascular disease, thrombophilia, or any circulatory or coagulation disorder.

Where it's running

• Asociación de Leganés de Esclerosis Múltiple
  Leganés, Madrid, Spain Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Roberto Cano de la Cuerda, PT, PhD — Universidad Rey Juan Carlos
• Study coordinator: Roberto Cano de la Cuerda, PT, PhD
• Email: roberto.cano@urjc.es
• Phone: +34914888674

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

• Treadmill-based virtual reality walking training for MS patients

  This study tests whether a treadmill with virtual reality and smart socks can help people with multiple sclerosis walk better and feel safer in daily life.

  Recruiting Shepherd Center, Atlanta GA · Atlanta, Georgia · NCT07927439

• Virtual Reality and Mental Practice to Improve Balance and Walking in Relapsing MS

  This study tests whether virtual reality training or mental practice can improve balance and walking in people with relapsing–remitting multiple sclerosis.

  Recruiting Cairo University · Giza, Giza Governorate · NCT07918339

• REAL-MS: A Look at Autologous Stem Cell Transplant vs High-Efficacy MS Therapies in Real-World Care

  This study tests how AHSCT compares to high-efficacy MS medicines in adults treated in routine clinical care.

  Recruiting Imperial College London · London and 2 other locations · NCT07899502

• Tolebrutinib in real-world MS care for patients treated by clinicians

  This real-world study sees how tolebrutinib is used for multiple sclerosis patients and what outcomes look like in everyday practice.

  Recruiting Sanofi · Marina, Abu Dhabi Emirate · NCT07898371

• Pilates via live video vs. prerecorded videos for people with multiple sclerosis

  This study tests whether live, coach-led Pilates sessions through video calls are more beneficial than prerecorded Pilates videos for adults with MS.

  Recruiting Yuzuncu Yil University · Van · NCT07893925

• Cooling During Inpatient Rehab for People with MS

  This trial tests whether wearing a cooling vest during intensive training can reduce fatigue and improve walking, strength, balance, and cognition in people with multiple sclerosis during a 3-week inpatient rehab stay.

  Recruiting Klinik Valens · Valens, Canton of St. Gallen · NCT07852156

How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.