Actively Recruiting
Effects of Low-intensity Resistance Training With Blood Flow Restriction and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Lower Limb Motor Function in People With Stroke
Led by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · Updated on 2025-05-15
80
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
Researchers are evaluating whether combining low-intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction (LIRT-BFR) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can help improve leg function in people who have had a stroke. This study focuses on chronic stroke survivors who often experience lasting leg impairments that affect their mobility and quality of life. The trial is a randomized controlled study aiming to see if this combined approach can restore lower limb strength, mobility, and overall quality of life. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of four groups receiving different combinations of actual or simulated blood flow restriction and electrical nerve stimulation, along with low-intensity resistance training. Each session lasts 60 minutes and includes a warm-up, 40 minutes of exercises like leg extensions, leg presses, and squats targeting the affected leg, followed by stationary cycling. Sessions occur three times per week for six weeks. The blood flow restriction uses an automated cuff placed on the upper leg, inflated during exercises and deflated during rest, while TENS delivers controlled electrical impulses to the anterior thigh. Participants will be assessed before the study, at the halfway point (3 weeks), after completing the intervention (6 weeks), and one month later. Researchers will measure leg motor function using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Lower Extremity, plus muscle strength, stiffness, balance, walking ability, and gait. Additional evaluations include muscle oxygen levels, muscle structure by ultrasound, heart rate variability, and perceived exertion to monitor safety. This comprehensive monitoring helps understand how the treatments work and their impact on recovery.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Blood Flow Restriction and Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation on Motor Function in Stroke
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Age between 50 and 80 years
- Had a single stroke more than 6 months and less than 15 years ago
- At least 5 degrees of active ankle dorsiflexion in the antigravity position
- Able to walk 10 meters independently, with or without a walking aid
- Able to score 6 or higher out of 10 on the abbreviated mental test
- No skin allergies to electrical stimulation or electrodes
- Able to follow instructions and provide informed consent
You will not qualify if you...
- Other health conditions such as varicose veins, peripheral neuropathy, cancer, musculoskeletal injury, lower limb swelling, post-surgical swelling, open wounds, or medications that increase blood clotting risk
- Resting blood pressure equal to or above 160/100 mmHg despite medication, heart failure, unstable angina, bypass surgery, or having a pacemaker
- Received botulinum toxin in the lower limb within the past 6 months
- History of epilepsy, cochlear implants, deep brain stimulators, or metal implants in the head or neck
- Not currently participating in resistance training or high-intensity cardiovascular exercise
- Unable to feel pain or unable to express discomfort due to paralysis or other reasons
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 visit (in-person)
Duration - 6 weeks
Participants undergo low-intensity resistance training (LIRT) combined with blood flow restriction (BFR) and/or transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) depending on their assigned group. Each session lasts 60 minutes including warm-up, resistance exercises, and aerobic cycling.
3 sessions per week
Duration - 1 month
Participants are assessed for motor function, muscle strength, balance, walking capacity, and muscle morphology one month after completing treatment.
1 visit (in-person)
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
S
Shamay NG, PhD
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
SINGLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
4
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