NCT06554340 · University of Massachusetts, Boston
Vascular Mechanisms, Functional Outcomes, & Exercise Among Persons With Multiple Sclerosis With Hypertension
What this study is about
The goal of this study is to determine if 12 weeks of cycling exercise training at home will improve three parameters: 1) blood pressure, 2) cognition, and 3) walking ability among persons with multiple sclerosis who have high blood pressure, when compared to a group that engages in a 12-week home-based stretching program. The main questions this study aims to answer are: 1.
View original scientific description
The goal of this study is to determine if 12 weeks of cycling exercise training at home will improve three parameters: 1) blood pressure, 2) cognition, and 3) walking ability among persons with multiple sclerosis who have high blood pressure, when compared to a group that engages in a 12-week home-based stretching program. The main questions this study aims to answer are: 1. Can home-based cycling exercise training improve blood pressure by increasing blood vessel dilation in people with multiple sclerosis? 2. Can cycling exercise training improve cognition and walking mobility in people with multiple sclerosis by improving blood pressure? The investigators will compare home-based cycling training to stretching to see if cycling training improves cognition, walking mobility, blood pressure, and fitness in people with multiple sclerosis. Participation in this study will take 13-14 weeks, with participants being randomized (like flipping a coin, a 50-50 chance of being in either group) to the home-based cycling training or the stretching group. All participants will be asked to * Visit the laboratory two times, one before the beginning of the intervention (home-base training and stretching group) and one at the end of the intervention. * During visits, participants will complete tests related to cognition, walking mobility, blood pressure and fitness.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Persons with confirmed multiple sclerosis diagnosis with Expanded Disability Status Scale scores of 4-6.5, characteristic of 2nd stage of multiple sclerosis;
- Hypertension defined as elevated, or Stage 1 or 2, as per the 2017 American Heart Association guidelines (brachial systolic blood pressure \> 120 mmHg or brachial diastolic blood pressure \> 80 mmHg)
- Persons who are physically inactive (less than 60 min/wk of physical activity);
- Persons with body mass index \< 40 kg/m2;
- Persons who are not confined to a wheel chair;
- Multiple sclerosis relapse in the past 30 days;
- People with stable pharmacotherapy.
Exclusion criteria
- People with additional cardiovascular comorbidities;
- People with type 1 diabetes mellitus;
- Physician disapproval to participating in the study;
- Space constraints to fit a cycle ergometer at the home of prospective participants.
Where
- Boston, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Aug 22, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations