Effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia on Neuroplasticity in MS (NCT06390930) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia on Neuroplasticity in MS
United States22 participantsStarted 2025-02-01
Plain-language summary
This study seeks to explore changes in the neural pathways and arm function following a breathing intervention in the multiple sclerosis (MS) population. The breathing intervention, known as Acute Intermittent Hypoxia (AIH), involves breathing brief bouts of low levels of oxygen. Research has found AIH to be a safe and effective intervention resulting in increased ankle strength in people with MS. Here, the study examines arm and hand function before and after AIH. In order to better understand the brain and spinal cord response to AIH, the investigators will measure muscle response, and signals sent from the brain to the arm muscles before and after AIH.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 75 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:
* Diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS according to the McDonald criteria, over 5 years ago
* Relapse free for at least 6 months
* Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) ≤7
* Index finger abduction strength \<5 according to Medical Research Council Scale, or 9-Hole Peg Test score \>20 seconds in at least one hand
* Stable disease modifying therapies for at least 6 months
* Individuals taking dalfampridine will be eligible if taking the same daily dose for at least 2 months prior to screening
Exclusion Criteria:
* Another diagnosis (e.g., peripheral neuropathies or orthopedic) affecting upper limb function
* Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score \<24
* Modified Ashworth Scale score \>3 on elbow joint
* Uncontrolled hypertension or hypotension (outside 140/90 and 85/55 mmHg)
* History of epilepsy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or sleep apnea
* Unstable medical conditions, ongoing upper limb therapy, or musculoskeletal pain
* Pregnancy as confirmed by urine test
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
Motor Evoked Potentials (MEPs) in First Dorsal Interosseous (FDI)
Timeframe: Immediately before, immediately after, and 60 minutes after the intervention.
2
Changes in Spinal Reflex Threshold
Timeframe: Immediately before the intervention and immediately after the intervention.
3
Threshold For Detecting Passive Joint Movement
Timeframe: Immediately before the intervention and immediately after the intervention.
4
Accuracy of Direction Estimation of Passive Joint Movement
Timeframe: Immediately before the intervention and immediately after the intervention.