NCT06027294 · Medical College of Wisconsin
Blood Flow Regulation and Neuromuscular Function Post-Stroke
What this study is about
The muscles of stroke survivors can fatigue faster compared to muscles in people who have not had a stroke, which can limit how long a person with stroke can perform tasks such as walking. This study will examine how blood flow is regulated to the exercising leg muscle post-stroke, because if the muscle does not receive enough blood flow it will become fatigued.
View original scientific description
The muscles of stroke survivors can fatigue faster compared to muscles in people who have not had a stroke, which can limit how long a person with stroke can perform tasks such as walking. This study will examine how blood flow is regulated to the exercising leg muscle post-stroke, because if the muscle does not receive enough blood flow it will become fatigued. Finally, the investigators will use a safe and simple non-invasive intervention called ischemic conditioning, which has known effects to improve blood flow to exercising muscle and determine the effects on muscle fatigue.
Interventions
PROCEDURE
Ischemic Conditioning
A cuff will be inflated to a pressure of 225 mmHg.
Primary outcome measures
Functional Sympatholysis Magnitude
Time frame: Years 3-5
Functional sympatholysis will be measured as a change in leg vascular conductance (in ml/min/mmHg) from the exercise control condition to the exercise + cold pressor test condition.
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
- Be between 18-85 years of age
- Able to give informed consent
- ≥6 months post diagnosis of unilateral cortical or sub-cortical stroke
- English speaking
Exclusion criteria
- History of blood clots in the extremities or any condition in which compression of the thigh or transient ischemia is contraindicated (e.g. wounds in the leg)
- Chronic pain syndrome
- Low back or hip pain that interferes with lower extremity motor testing
- History of head trauma
- Comorbid neurological disorder
- Peripheral vascular disease
- Myocardial infarction in the previous year
- Inability to follow 2 step commands
- Condition where fatiguing contractions or resisted leg contractions are contraindicated
- Resting SBP ≥160 mmHg or DBP ≥ 110 mmHg
- Pregnancy or breastfeeding.
Where
- Milwaukee, Wisconsin
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 Sep 25, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations