Actively Recruiting
Innovative Approaches to Enhance Balance and Neuroplasticity in Multiple Sclerosis
Led by University Health Network, Toronto · Updated on 2026-03-16
24
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
156 weeks
Total Duration
On this page
Sponsors
U
University Health Network, Toronto
Lead Sponsor
D
Direct MS Canada
Collaborating Sponsor
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This study will evaluate the effects of combining balance training with electrical stimulation techniques in individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). MS commonly impairs leg strength, coordination, and balance, increasing the risk of falls and reducing independence. The interventions include:Balance training only, Balance training with Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES), and Balance training with FES and Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation (TSCS). FES delivers small electrical pulses to leg muscles, while TSCS delivers electrical signals through the skin to stimulate the spinal cord and enhance motor control. The study will enroll up to 24 participants over a 3-year period. This trial is funded by MS Canada. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of three groups: (1) balance training only, (2) balance training with FES, or (3) balance training with FES and TSCS. All participants will complete 12 supervised training sessions over 6 weeks. During each session, participants will engage in interactive balance games while standing in a safety harness.Outcome assessments will be conducted at three time points: baseline (prior to training), post-intervention (after 6 weeks), and follow-up (8 weeks after training). Assessments will include: * Clinical tests of mobility and balance (Timed Up and Go:TUG, 10-Meter Walk Test:10MWT, Berg Balance Scale:BBS) * Computerized balance testing using a force plate * Questionnaires on walking ability, fear of falling, and balance confidence * Neurophysiological measures of brain-spinal cord-muscle communication before and after training
CONDITIONS
Official Title
Innovative Approaches to Enhance Balance and Neuroplasticity in Multiple Sclerosis
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Confirmed diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis (MS) according to the revised McDonald criteria
- Age 18 to 65 years
- Ability to walk at least 100 meters, with or without an assistive device, without rest
- Self-reported balance problems during standing or walking in daily activities
You will not qualify if you...
- Uncorrected vision problems
- Cognitive impairment preventing understanding instructions or completing questionnaires
- Ongoing MS flare or paroxysmal vertigo
- Other neurological or orthopedic conditions affecting balance
- Recent physical, occupational, or vestibular therapy within 1 month before enrollment
- Planned or recent botulinum toxin injections to legs during the study
- Peripheral nerve damage in the legs
- Contraindications to electrical stimulation, including implanted electronic devices, active cancer or recent radiation, uncontrolled epilepsy, skin rash or open wounds at electrode sites, pregnancy, or active deep vein thrombosis
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
Toronto Rehabilitation Institute-Lyndhurst Center
Toronto, Ontario, Canada, m4g3v9
Actively Recruiting
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
DOUBLE
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Model
PARALLEL
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
3
Not the Right Trial for You?
Explore thousands of other clinical trials that might be a better match.
Sign up to get personalized trial recommendations delivered to your inbox.
Already have an account? Log in here