Functional and Structural Imaging and Motor Control in Spinocerebellar Ataxia (NCT02488031) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Functional and Structural Imaging and Motor Control in Spinocerebellar Ataxia
United States19 participantsStarted 2016-03
Plain-language summary
The purpose of this research study is to investigate how the brain and motor behavior changes both in individuals with spinocerebellar ataxia and healthy individuals, and to assess whether a therapeutic intervention reduces levels of uncoordinated movement and improves motor function in spinocerebellar ataxia (SCA).
Who can participate
Age range
21 Years – 85 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* DNA diagnosis of SCA1, SCA3, or SCA6
* phenotype consistent with the DNA diagnosis
* ability to walk 7 meters
* the age of 21-85 years
* capable of providing informed consent and complying with the trial procedures
Exclusion Criteria:
* Known recessive, X-linked or mitochondrial ataxias or any other type of ataxia
* Concomitant disorder(s) that affect ataxia measures used in this study
* Cognitive status on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment \< 24
* Patients who have any type of implanted electrical device (such as a cardiac pacemaker or a neurostimulator), or a certain type of metallic clip in their body (i.e., an aneurysm clip in the brain), and are not eligible for participation in the MRI portion of the study
* Individuals who are claustrophobic
* Women who are or might be pregnant and nursing mothers
* Individuals with psychiatric disorders or dementia, along with other neurological and orthopedic problems that impair hand movements and walking
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Change in the Location of the Movement Endpoint Relative to the Target in the Motor Task