Using digital technologies to measure physical impairments in ALS
Official title: Measurement and Impact of Physical Impairment in Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis: Use of Digital Technologies - A Precision ALS Project
Run by University of Dublin, Trinity College · NCT06820008 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing new digital tools to see how well they can measure physical challenges in people with ALS, making it easier for patients to participate without having to travel much.
Quick facts
| Study type | Observational |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 60 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Dublin, Trinity College Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Dublin, Dublin) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 21, 2024 |
| Main results expected | June 1, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 1, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | February 11, 2025 |
| Trial ID | NCT06820008 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include adults over 18 diagnosed with ALS who can use a smartphone or tablet and have stable internet access.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with neurological diseases other than ALS or those with conditions that limit their ability to participate may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the validity and usability of various digital technologies designed to measure physical impairments in patients with Amyotrophic Lateral Sclerosis (ALS). It aims to evaluate tools that assess speech, swallowing, strength, dexterity, mobility, and respiration, allowing patients to participate in research with minimal travel burden. Participants will use devices and apps to collect data on their physical function, and their adherence to these technologies will be assessed through questionnaires and interviews. The study seeks to enhance the understanding of ALS and improve the precision of future clinical trials.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more accurate assessments of physical impairments in ALS, ultimately improving patient care and treatment options.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of digital technologies in ALS research is emerging, this specific approach to measuring physical impairments is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of ALS made by a Neurologist; possible, lab-supported probable, probable or definite as per the revised El Escorial Criteria. * Enrolled in the Precision ALS prospective study. * Ability to understand participation requirements and provide informed consent to undergo assessments and for data to be used. * Willingness to use a smartphone or tablet and to download and use study apps. * Age \>18 years * Home access to a stable broadband internet connection and willingness to use this for data collection. Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of a neurological disease other than ALS, active dementia or psychiatric illness that would limit ability to follow the assessment schedule of the study. * Other medical condition that would compromise the patient's safety or limit their participation in this study.
Where it's running
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Beaumont Hospital
Dublin, Dublin, Ireland Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Dara Meldrum, PhD — University of Dublin, Trinity College
- Study coordinator: Dara Meldrum, PhD
- Email: meldrumd@tcd.ie
- Phone: +353 1 8964497
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.