The Effects of a 12-week In-phase Bilateral Exercise Programme on the Corticospinal Plasticity in… (NCT07548242) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
The Effects of a 12-week In-phase Bilateral Exercise Programme on the Corticospinal Plasticity in People With Progressive Multiple Sclerosis
Cyprus5 participantsStarted 2025-02-01
Plain-language summary
This study investigates whether a structured exercise program using coordinated movements of both arms can improve brain and motor function in people with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Progressive MS is associated with gradual worsening of neurological function, including difficulties with movement, strength, balance, and cognition. Because current medications have limited effects on disease progression, rehabilitation strategies that promote brain plasticity and functional recovery are increasingly important.
In this study, five individuals with Progressive Multiple Sclerosis participated in a 12-week exercise program consisting of in-phase bilateral upper-limb movements performed three times per week. Brain activity related to movement was measured using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS), which assessed corticospinal excitability through active motor threshold measurements. Additional clinical tests evaluated walking speed, balance, hand dexterity, muscle strength, cognitive processing speed, fatigue, and quality of life. The study used a single-case experimental design with repeated measurements during baseline and intervention phases to determine whether the exercise program produced measurable neurophysiological and functional changes.
Who can participate
Age range
30 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 Primary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (PPMS) or Secondary Progressive Multiple Sclerosis (SPMS)
* Age between 30 and 75 years
* Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score between 5 and 7
* Ability to understand study procedures and provide informed consent
* Ability to safely participate in an exercise program involving coordinated upper-limb movements
Exclusion Criteria:
* Presence of other neurological diseases affecting the central nervous system (e.g., Parkinson's disease, stroke)
* Metallic implants in the brain contraindicating transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS)
* History of significant cardiovascular disease (e.g., heart failure, aneurysm)
* History of epilepsy or seizures
* Severe orthopedic disorders (e.g., recent fractures, spine surgery, severe musculoskeletal injury)
* Pregnancy during the study period
* Severe visual impairments (e.g., optic neuritis, diplopia)
* Severe hearing impairments (e.g., deafness)
* Severe spasticity greater than grade 1+ on the Modified Ashworth Scale
* Severe psychiatric disorders (e.g., schizophrenia)
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.