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New treatment option for Multiple Sclerosis
Official title Investigating the Effects of Wearable Robotic Exoskeleton for Improving Mobility and Cognition in Persons With MS
ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT04855825
What this study is testing
- What it's testing
- The purpose of this research study is to evaluate the usefulness of a wearable robotic exoskeleton device (Ekso-GT), to improve learning and memory, and gait therapy in persons with walking disability due to Multiple Sclerosis. The study will evaluate the mobility, learning and memory, and walking abilities of individuals with multiple sclerosis who went through the traditional as compared to others who used the robotic exoskeleton as part of their therapy.
A plain-language read of the study's public ClinicalTrials.gov listing. The study team confirms the details.
Who can take part
Ages 18 to 75
You may be able to join if
- Be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
- Be determined by the study staff to have moderate to severe difficulty walking but still be able to walk while using the robotic exoskeleton.
- Have some difficulty thinking and problem solving as determined by my performance on a special test that I will take during the screening visit.
- Be between the ages of 18 and 75.
- Be free from flair ups of my MS Symptoms for at least one month prior to testing.
You likely can't join if
- Have a history of head injury, stroke, seizures, or any other significant neurological history other than MS.
- Have a high degree of difficulty in thinking and problem solving that prevents me from participating in the study as determined by my performance on...
- Be currently taking steroids, benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, and/or neuroleptics as determined by study staff review of my medications.
- Be pregnant.
- Be completely reliant on a wheelchair.
- Have joint contracture or spasticity of any limb that limits normal range of motion during walking with assistive devices as determined by study...
See the full eligibility criteria
- Be diagnosed with multiple sclerosis.
- Be determined by the study staff to have moderate to severe difficulty walking but still be able to walk while using the robotic exoskeleton.
- Have some difficulty thinking and problem solving as determined by my performance on a special test that I will take during the screening visit.
- Be between the ages of 18 and 75.
- Be free from flair ups of my MS Symptoms for at least one month prior to testing.
- Discuss with study staff how to maintain a constant level of my spasticity medication (for example baclofen) throughout the study.
- Be able to walk (with the use of one or more assistive device if needed).
- Have English as my primary language.
- Be able to physically fit into the exoskeleton device: height between 60 and 76", weight under 220 lbs.
- Be able to tolerate upright standing for 30 minutes with assistance if needed.
- Have normal joint range of motion for walking as determined by study staff.
- Have sufficient strength to use the hemiwalker, bilateral canes or walker while wearing the RE.
- Have stable blood pressure.
- Be willing and able to give informed consent.
- Be able and willing to comply with study procedures and follow directions and commands, verbal instructions, and follow-up requirements.
- Have a history of head injury, stroke, seizures, or any other significant neurological history other than MS.
- Have a high degree of difficulty in thinking and problem solving that prevents me from participating in the study as determined by my performance on a special test taken during the screening visit.
- Be currently taking steroids, benzodiazepines, antipsychotics, and/or neuroleptics as determined by study staff review of my medications.
- Be pregnant.
- Be completely reliant on a wheelchair.
- Have joint contracture or spasticity of any limb that limits normal range of motion during walking with assistive devices as determined by study staff.
- Have skin issues that would prevent wearing the RE.
- Have pressure sore stage 2 or higher located in an area that would negatively affect weight bearing, harness fit, or therapist assistance.
- Have orthopedic issues or history that will interfere with walking or limit the range of motion of the lower limbs (e.g., knee replacement, inflammation)
- Have been hospitalized for heart attack, heart surgery or acute heart failure within 3 months of enrollment in study.
- Have any other medical conditions that my doctor or physical therapist feels would affect my ability to use the robotic device.
- Have a pacemaker or other implanted electrical device, brain stimulator, aneurysm clip (metal clips on the wall of a large artery), metallic prostheses (including metal pins and rods, heart valves, and internal hearing...
- Have dental implants- I should discuss any dental implants with the investigators.
- Have been told by my doctor that it is unsafe for me to have a regular MRI as part of my medical care.
The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where it's taking place
- West Orange, New Jersey, United States
Questions & answers
Do participants get paid in this trial?
This listing doesn't specify compensation. Many trials still reimburse travel or offer a stipend, so it's worth asking the study team when you connect.
Is it free to join, and do I need insurance?
Searching and applying through BridgeMD is free. In clinical trials the study-related treatment and visits are generally provided at no cost to you. You usually don't need insurance to take part - confirm specifics with the study team.
How long does this study last?
The listing doesn't state an exact length. The study team walks you through the schedule and number of visits before you decide to enroll.
Who can join this trial?
This study is enrolling all sexes, 18 years to 75 years. The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where is this trial taking place?
Study sites include West Orange, New Jersey, United States. Enter your location above to see the nearest site and check your eligibility.
Explore other conditions
BridgeMD is an information and trial-matching tool - not medical advice, and not the study sponsor. Details come from ClinicalTrials.gov; the study team decides eligibility.