NCT07759115 · University of Texas at Austin
Music-4-MS to Improve Cognition in People Living With Multiple Sclerosis: A Feasibility Study
What this study is about
Multiple sclerosis (MS) rates in the U.S. have nearly doubled over the past decade, making it a leading cause of nontraumatic functional impairment in young adults and significantly affecting cognitive function in up to 70% of people with MS.
View original scientific description
Multiple sclerosis (MS) rates in the U.S. have nearly doubled over the past decade, making it a leading cause of nontraumatic functional impairment in young adults and significantly affecting cognitive function in up to 70% of people with MS. While traditional cognitive rehabilitation methods are limited in sensory engagement, music training offers a multisensory approach that enhances neuroplasticity and improves cognitive functions. This study investigates the feasibility of Music-4-MS, a 12-week music-based eHealth intervention, to support cognitive and emotional health in individuals with MS.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Music Training Intervention
The Music Training Intervention (MTI) entails 12-weeks of online instruction to learn to play the ukulele. Participants will be taught the basic information on how to hold the ukulele, musical chords, strum and play popular songs. They will be instructed to play at least 30-minutes a day, five days a week.
BEHAVIORAL
Music Listening
Participants randomized to this arm will be asked to listen to their preferred music for at least 30 minutes, 5 days a week. A member of our research team will call them every week to answer any questions they have about the ML protocol. They will be asked to record their experience in a daily log
Primary outcome measures
Feasibility: Engagement
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention
Feasibility will be assessed by quantifying weekly participation in Music-4-MS using the activity metrics from the online platform Teachable.
Feasibility: Retention
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention
Feasibility will be evaluated by quantifying how many participants drop out throughout the course of the study.
Feasibility: Recruitment
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention
Feasibility will be assessed by quantifying how many people accept the invitation to participate in the study.
Musical Training Intervention Acceptability
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention
Acceptability will be evaluated with semi-structured interview questions to understand the participant's perception of MTI delivery and content and the perceived impact.
Music Listening Intervention Acceptability
Time frame: Immediately post-intervention
Acceptability will be assessed by having participants rate a series of eight statements from 1 (Strongly Disagree) to 7 (Strongly Agree), and answer three open-ended questions based on their experience with the music listening program.
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
- Diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (relapsing remitting, secondary progressive, primary progressive)
- Diagnosed more than 6 months prior to starting study
- Self-reported cognitive impairment as assessed by having at leased 5 problems "sometimes" or more often on the Perceived Deficits Questionnaire
- Read, write, and understand English
- Access to internet
Exclusion criteria
- Diagnosed with another neurological condition that causes cognitive impairment
- MS exacerbation within the last 30 days
- Professional musician (primary source of income)
Where
- Austin, Texas
Collaborators
National Institute of Nursing Research (NINR)
Related conditions & keywords
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 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations