Variable Intense Training for Ataxia and Locomotion
Official title: Feasibility and Potential Efficacy of High-intensity Gait Training in Individuals With Cerebellar Damage
Run by Indiana University · NCT07621978 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether a high-intensity stepping program in variable contexts helps people with cerebellar disorders improve walking more than conventional balance training.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Indiana University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Indianapolis, Indiana) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 15, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 15, 2028 |
| Study ends | December 15, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | November 10, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07621978 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18–85 with cerebellar disorders who can ambulate at least 10 meters with minimal assistance and meet safety criteria.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with uncontrolled cardiopulmonary/metabolic conditions or recent lower-extremity injuries may not benefit and are excluded.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This interventional study compares a high-intensity, variable-context stepping training to conventional balance training in adults with cerebellar disorders. Participants will perform a stepping-focused program designed to push locomotor tasks under changing conditions, versus standard balance exercises. The study aims to determine feasibility and identify any preliminary signals of improved locomotion and balance. Eligible participants include adults with cerebellar dysfunction who can walk at least 10 meters with limited assistance and meet safety criteria. The trial is led by Indiana University with involvement from the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana and Indiana University Health at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana in Indianapolis.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improved walking ability and balance in daily life due to targeted, high-intensity training.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research in cerebellar disorders suggests that targeted physical therapy can yield motor improvements, though this high-intensity, variable-context approach is novel in this population.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Ages 18-85 * \>6 months following brain injury or diagnosis of cerebellar dysfunction * A total score of \> 4 on items 5-8 on the SARA for the ipsilateral limb * Ability to ambulate 10 m at self-selected gait speeds (SSV) \<1.2 m/s with no greater than minimal physical assistance permitted for postural stability only, but with below knee bracing and/or assistive device as needed * Weight \< 350 pounds * Able to follow 1-step command * Medical clearance to participate Exclusion Criteria: * Uncontrolled cardiopulmonary or metabolic disease that limits exercise participation, active heterotopic ossification, recurrent history of lower extremity fractures, previous orthopedic or other peripheral or central neurologic injury that may impair locomotor activities * Currently participating in other physical therapy * \>50 units of Botox within the past three months in the lower extremity OR in the lower extremity, but above the knee if the participant wears an ankle-foot-orthosis * Individuals deemed not stable between Pre-Baseline Testing and Baseline Testing
Where it's running
-
Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana
Indianapolis, Indiana, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Thomas G Hornby — Indiana University
- Study coordinator: Thomas G Hornby
- Email: tghornby@iu.edu
- Phone: 3123508291
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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.