Vibrotactile Stimulation to Help Lower Limb Spasticity and Walking
Official title: Vibrotactile Stimulation for Lower Limb Spasticity
Run by Weill Medical College of Cornell University · NCT07447934 · Data updated 2026-11-12
Researchers will test whether vibrotactile stimulation can help people with lower limb spasticity move better and walk faster.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 25 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Weill Medical College of Cornell University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (New York, New York) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 30, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | October 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | June 17, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07447934 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with lower limb spasticity at least 6 months after a neurologic event, MAS score ≤3 on the ankle plantar flexor, able to stand and lie supine, and willing to follow study procedures.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with uncontrolled systemic illness, recent Botulinum toxin therapy in the target limb, or unstable/spasmolytic medication regimens may not benefit or may be excluded from this trial.
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 evaluates vibrotactile stimulation (VTS) as a potential aid for mobility in individuals with post-stroke lower limb spasticity. The trial examines where on the body VTS is most effective and whether it improves walking speed during both standing and walking. Participants receive 15 minutes of VTS on various body sites and use a VTS device for 60 minutes in supervised lab sessions and at home, including days with rest and days with walking. Outcomes include changes in mobility, spasticity, device comfort, and feasibility in static and dynamic gait contexts, using a randomized crossover design. The study also explores neurophysiological mechanisms underlying VTS effects.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, VTS could provide a non-drug option to improve mobility and reduce muscle stiffness for people with lower limb spasticity.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary studies in neuromodulation and vibrotactile approaches have shown signals of mobility improvement in spasticity, but this study tests a novel combination and placement strategy with a crossover design.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * ≥6 months following neurologic diagnosis leading to spasticity * Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) score of 3 or lower on ankle plantar flexor. * Ability to stand (with or without assistance) and lie supine. * Able to understand and comply with study procedures. Exclusion Criteria: * Uncontrolled systemic illness or serious medical conditions that could interfere with study procedures. * Previous surgery to treat spasticity in the affected lower limb. * Prior Botulinum Toxin (BoNT) therapy in the target limb within 4 months. * Unstable medication regimens for spasmolysis or muscle relaxation. * Participation in tone-related treatments (e.g., physiotherapy, TENS, acupuncture) within 4 weeks prior to baseline. If ongoing treatment started more than 4 weeks before baseline, it should remain consistent throughout the study
Where it's running
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Department of Rehabilitation Medicine
New York, New York, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Joan Stilling, M.D., M.S. — Weill Medical College of Cornell University
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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.