Berck

Researchers are evaluating the EXOPULSE Suit, a medical device designed to stimulate multiple muscle groups to help relax tense and spastic muscles, in people with Multiple Sclerosis MS. The study aims to confirm whether this device can improve walking ability compared to a sham version. This research is important for individuals with MS who experience reduced mobility and may not be able to use drug treatments like Fampridine due to side effects or other reasons. The EXOPULSE Suit is a wearable device with 50 electrodes that stimulate up to 43 major muscle groups. Participants will use the suit for one hour every other day at home. The study uses a randomized crossover design where participants first use the active suit for 4 weeks, then have a 4-week washout period, followed by 4 weeks using the sham suit, or vice versa. The sham suit provides stimulation only during the first minute, then turns off. During the study, participants will be assessed through various tests including walking scales, timed walk tests, and fatigue and pain questionnaires over 28-day periods. Researchers will monitor walking ability and muscle spasticity, among other outcomes. Participants must attend all medical visits and will be monitored throughout the study, which starts in March 2026 and continues until March 2027.

This research focuses on adults with bilateral traumatic amputation of both forearms, a rare condition that greatly affects independence and quality of life. The study evaluates two approaches bilateral hand and forearm allografts transplants and the use of prosthetic forehands. It aims to compare these options in terms of costs, quality of life, usefulness, satisfaction, autonomy, and social integration. The study builds on previous work that demonstrated the feasibility and functional benefits of bilateral hand grafts, despite the need for immunosuppressive treatment and potential medical complications. Participants receive either a bilateral allograft of the hands and forearms or prosthetic forehands. The transplant group must meet specific medical and psychological criteria, including a minimum of three months since amputation and no recent cancer history. The prosthetic group uses prosthetic devices for limb replacement. This non-randomized study conducted by Hospices Civils de Lyon compares these two treatment approaches over a 36-month period. During the study, researchers will monitor treatment costs over 36 months as the primary outcome. Participants will be assessed for quality of life, autonomy, satisfaction, and social integration. Medical evaluations include psychological assessments, kidney function, heart function, and blood pressure control for the transplant group. The study runs until October 2031, and participants will be regularly evaluated to understand the long-term impact and benefits of each treatment option.