Using rhythmic sounds to improve walking in stroke survivors and older adults
Responders to Metronome-based Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation in Individuals Post-Stroke and Older Adults
This study is testing if using rhythmic sounds can help stroke survivors and older adults walk better and feel more stable on their feet.
Quick facts
| Phase | Phase 1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 44 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Boston University Charles River Campus Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Boston, Massachusetts) |
| Trial ID | NCT06085248 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of Rhythmic Auditory Stimulation (RAS) on walking ability in individuals who have experienced a stroke and older adults. It aims to understand how personalized RAS can enhance gait quality, speed, and rhythmicity, addressing the common challenges of slow and unstable walking patterns. By recruiting 24 participants, the study will analyze the variability in responses to RAS, considering both stroke-related and age-related factors. The ultimate goal is to improve independence and quality of life for these populations.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals who are at least 6 months post-stroke and older adults aged 65 to 80 who can walk independently for at least 6 minutes.
Not a fit: Patients with severe comorbidities affecting walking, those unable to communicate effectively, or individuals who have experienced more than 2 falls in the previous month may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance walking ability and reduce disability in stroke survivors and older adults.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise for RAS in improving walking function, indicating that this approach may be effective, though this specific investigation into individual variability is novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Be able to communicate with investigators clearly * The ability to walk without another individual supporting the person's body weight for at least 6 minutes. Assistive devices, such as a cane, are allowed. Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to communicate (as assessed by a licensed physical therapist) * Pain that impairs walking ability (as assessed by a licensed physical therapist) * Unexplained dizziness in the last 6 months (self-report) * Severe comorbidities that affect walking or may interfere with the ability to participate in the study (musculoskeletal, cardiovascular, pulmonary, and neurological) * More than 2 falls in the previous month Stroke-specific Inclusion Criteria: * at least 6 months post-stroke Older adults specific Inclusion Criteria: * 65 to 80 years of age
Where this trial is running
Boston, Massachusetts
- Boston University Neuromotor Recovery Laboratory — Boston, Massachusetts, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Louis Awad, PT, DPT, PhD — Boston University
- Study coordinator: Dheepak Arumukhom Revi, MS
- Email: dheepak1@bu.edu
- Phone: 6143133081
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.