Low Load Resistance Training Using Blood Flow Restriction for People With Multiple Sclerosis

Completed · Not applicable

Conditions studied: Multiple Sclerosis

In brief

The Primary Aim of this research study is to determine the feasibility of 8 weeks of physical therapy strengthening exercises using blood flow restriction (BFR) in people with multiple sclerosis (MS) who have moderate-to-severe walking problems. BFR training involves placing a cuff on the leg being exercised in order to restrict blood flow. The cuff is attached to a specialized device that automatically detects the appropriate amount of pressure to place on the limb. Testing will occur before and after the 8-week treatment period.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT04633759

Run by

University of Colorado, Denver

People needed

16

Starts

2021-02-19

Expected to finish

2022-10-05

Last updated by the study team

2026-06-09

Who can join

Age: 18 and older, up to 70. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: not accepted.

You may qualify if…

• Adults ages 18-70
• Neurologist-confirmed diagnosis of multiple sclerosis
• Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) 6.0 to 7.0
• EDSS 6.0: unilateral assistance (cane or crutch) required to walk at least 100 meters with or without resting
• EDSS 6.5: Bilateral assistance (cane or crutch) required to walk at least 20 meters with or without resting
• EDSS 7.0: unable to walk 5 meters even with aid, essentially restricted to wheelchair; wheels self and transfers alone; up and about in wheelchair some 12 hours a day

You may not qualify if…

• EDSS 7.5 or greater: Restricted to wheelchair for all mobility, unable to walk more than a few steps, even with walking aid
• EDSS 5.5 or less: Able to walk more than 100 meters without walking aid or rest
• Unable to provide consent or follow simple directions
• Prior history of Deep Venous Thrombosis/ Pulmonary Embolism
• History of peripheral vascular disease, thrombophilia or other clotting disorders
• Patient report of easy bruising
• Any comorbid conditions or pain that substantially affects physical function or would interfere with the participant's ability to safely complete rehabilitation (e.g. neurologic, vascular, cardiac problems, orthopedic, or ongoing medical treatments) as determined by a neurologist of physical therapist
• Severe lower extremity spasticity as defined as Modified Ashworth scale > 2
• Currently undergoing supervised resistance training with a physical therapist or other exercise professional
• Use of Blood Flow Restriction currently or in the previous 3 months prior to enrollment
• MS-related exacerbation or changes to their disease-modifying drug therapy in the month prior to enrollment
• Inability to tolerate pressure cuff during baseline assessment

Where it is running

• University of Colorado — Aurora, Colorado, United States

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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