Is NCT07355387 recruiting in Chicago, IL?

Yes, NCT07355387 is currently recruiting participants at its Chicago, IL location. This multiple sclerosis clinical trial is actively enrolling qualified participants.

How do I join the multiple sclerosis clinical trial in Chicago?

To join this clinical trial in Chicago, complete the eligibility form on this page. A study coordinator will contact you to discuss next steps and determine if you qualify.

Is participation in this Chicago clinical trial free?

Yes, all study-related care is provided at no cost to qualified participants. Many studies also offer compensation for time and travel expenses.

Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trial in Chicago, IL

About This Multiple Sclerosis Study in Chicago

The study involves a two-arm, Phase 1, randomized controlled clinical trial designed to establish the feasibility and effects of a Functional Balance Intervention (FBI) on physical and cognitive function, as well as measures of daily living among persons with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). Combined Specific Aims: Aim 1: Examine the effect of the FBI (Intervention Group) on physical function in PwMS compared to a stretching program (Control Group). Hypothesis 1: After four months of training, the FBI group will show significantly greater improvements in physical function compared to the stretching group. Aim 2: Examine the effect of the multicomponent FBI on cognitive function in PwMS compared to the stretching program. Hypothesis 2: After four months of training, the FBI group will show significantly greater improvements in cognitive function compared to the stretching group. Aim 3: Examine the effects of the multicomponent FBI compared to the Control Group among PwMS on measures of daily living (dual-task performance, balance confidence, community mobility, and quality of life). Hypothesis 3: After four months of training, the FBI group will show significantly greater improvements in measures of daily living compared to the stretching group. All assessment sessions will be conducted virtually via Zoom. All measures collected during the initial screening, pre-training assessment, training progression, and mid- and post-training assessment sessions will be administered either via Zoom with a Helper Buddy present or through survey links sent to participants via the UIC REDCap system. The training sessions will be performed independently by the participants in the presence of a Helper Buddy. The investigators will recruit 75 people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS) for this study. Eligible participants will be randomized to either the FBI (Intervention) or stretching (Control) group, followed by an onboarding session with a designated Helper Buddy. Training will occur twice weekly for four months. Based on the anticipated attrition rate, the investigators aim for 40 PwMS to complete the post-training assessments and finish the study.

Sponsor: University of Illinois at Chicago

Who Can Participate

Inclusion Criteria

Telephone Screening Inclusion Criteria:

Age 40-90 years.

Self-reported diagnosis of Multiple Sclerosis.

On stable disease-modifying therapy for ≥6 months.

No PT/OT balance-related therapy in the past 6 months.

Able to stand from a chair independently (with or without hand support).

Score 25-75% on the 12-item MS Walking Scale.

No other neurological, cardiopulmonary, musculoskeletal, or systemic conditions affecting standing/walking.

English speaking.

Willing to complete all study procedures including Zoom sessions.

Has reliable internet access.

Has a helper buddy available for all sessions.

Possible mild cognitive impairment based on self-report. Initial Screening Inclusion Criteria:

Moderate disability: ePR-EDSS score 4.0-6.5.

Mild cognitive impairment: MoCA 18-25, or Jak/Bondi criteria for those scoring 26-30.

Physically inactive or moderately active (Godin score \<24).

Cardiovascular safety parameters within acceptable limits.

No global aphasia (Mississippi Aphasia Screening Test ≥71 percent).

Berg Balance Scale score ≥40/56.

Able to walk 1 block with or without an assistive device. Helper Buddy Inclusion Criteria:

Age ≥18 years.

Lives within close proximity to the participant.

No self-reported major medical conditions limiting safety assistance.

English speaking.

Able to attend all training and assessment sessions.

Able to assist with basic safety, positioning, and communication with the research team.

Has internet access and can use Zoom.

Exclusion Criteria

Telephone Screening Exclusion Criteria:

MS relapse or exacerbation within the past 3 months.

Recent major surgery (\<6 months) or hospitalization (\<3 months).

Resting shortness of breath or uncontrolled pain \>3/10.

Uncontrolled hypertension or diabetes.

Bone fracture in the past 6 months.

Disability limiting activities of daily living.

History of epilepsy or uncontrolled seizures in past year.

Sedative medication use that may interfere with training.

Use of Alzheimer's/dementia-modifying drugs or enrollment in AD clinical trials.

Use of antidepressants or anxiety medications.

Moderate or high risk on PAR-Q (≤1 "yes" response).

Severe cognitive impairment (TICS-M ≥18).

Currently receiving cognitive or physical rehabilitation.

Pacemaker use. Initial Screening Exclusion Criteria:

Cardiovascular parameters outside safety limits (HR, BP, O₂ saturation).

Global aphasia (Mississippi \<71 percent).

Peripheral nerve injury.

Berg Balance Scale \<40/56.

Inability to walk one block with or without an assistive device. Population Exclusions:

Non-English speakers (protocol delivered only in English).

Individuals under 18 years.

Pregnant individuals.

Prisoners or other vulnerable populations.

Not sure if you qualify? Submit your interest and a study coordinator will help determine your eligibility.

Frequently Asked Questions

Q:Is this study available in Chicago?

Yes, this clinical trial (NCT07355387) has an active research site in Chicago, IL that is currently enrolling participants.

Q:Is it safe to participate?

Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. This study has been reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals. You can withdraw at any time.

Q:Will I be compensated?

Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time and travel expenses. Specific compensation details will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is provided at no cost.

Q:Can I leave the trial if I change my mind?

Absolutely. Participation is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty.

Still have questions? Our study coordinators are here to help.

Multiple Sclerosis Treatment Options in Chicago, IL

If you're searching for multiple sclerosis treatment options in Chicago, IL, this clinical trial (NCT07355387) may be an excellent opportunity. Clinical trials provide access to cutting-edge treatments that aren't yet available to the general public, often at no cost to participants.

Our Chicago research site is actively enrolling participants for this clinical trial. You'll receive care from experienced multiple sclerosis specialists who are at the forefront of medical research. All study-related care, including examinations, treatments, and monitoring, is provided at no cost to qualified participants.

Looking for more options? Browse all multiple sclerosis clinical trials near you to find additional studies recruiting in your area.

Multiple Sclerosis Clinical Trial in Chicago, IL

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