This trial is examining the effectiveness of a new treatment called ischemic conditioning for the recovery of stroke survivors. The main outcome to be measured will be the change in walking speed. This trial will be conducted in Wisconsin, US.
The details
A stroke happens when the blood flow to the brain is cut off. The brain cells stop receiving oxygen and begin to die. The abilities controlled by these cells are lost leaving survivors with side effects such as arm paralysis.
Ischemic conditioning (IC) consists of temporarily stopping the blood flow in the affected arm. This will activate the natural protection system of the body against injury and tissue damage. IC is a non-invasive, simple procedure that improves movement and cardiovascular function. However, it has never been tested in a stroke population.
This trial is examining the effectiveness of IC for the recovery of stroke survivors. The main outcome to be measured will be the change in walking speed.
Who are they looking for?
This study is recruiting 120 participants with at least 1 year after diagnosis of leg/foot paralysis. Participants must walk slower than the normal speed values and must be able to follow 2 step command. Participants must be able to walk for 5 minutes on a treadmill with a harness supporting up to 50% of the body.
Patients must not have a history of deep vein thrombosis, substance abuse or head trauma. Must not have chronic low back or hip pain, brain disorder, a pacemaker or any condition that might prevent leg contractions.
How will it work
There will be 3 groups in the study. Patients will be assigned to IC plus treadmill training, treadmill only or IC only. This trial will also enroll a group of matched healthy control participants who will undergo IC plus treadmill training. The training program will last for 4 weeks, 3 times a week. The follow-up period will be 5 years.
The main outcome will be measured by how fast the patients walk during the 10-meter walk test.
