NCT06585943 · The Cleveland Clinic
I-Score: Intensive Stroke Cycling for Optimal Recovery and Economic Value
What this study is about
Traditional rehabilitation approaches are time and personnel intensive and costly, and leave \~75% of stroke survivors with residual disability. We propose a clinical trial to determine effects of forced aerobic exercise (FE; i.e.
View original scientific description
Traditional rehabilitation approaches are time and personnel intensive and costly, and leave \~75% of stroke survivors with residual disability. We propose a clinical trial to determine effects of forced aerobic exercise (FE; i.e., mechanically supplemented) in facilitating upper and lower extremity motor recovery post-stroke in an outpatient rehabilitation setting, to elucidate neural and biochemical substrates of FE-induced motor recovery, and to evaluate cost effectiveness of a FE-centered intervention compared to traditional stroke rehabilitation. The global effect of FE has the potential to enhance recovery in a growing population of stroke survivors in a cost-effective manner, thus accelerating its clinical acceptance.
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
- will be recruited from the Cleveland Clinic:
- 3-9 months following single ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke confirmed with neuroimaging (ie: first-time stroke)
- Fugl-Meyer motor score 19-55 in the involved UE
- Fugl-Meyer score \<34 in the involved LE demonstrating residual hemiparesis
- Ambulatory ≥ 20 meters with no more than contact guard assistance
- 18-85 years of age
Exclusion criteria
- hospitalization for myocardial infarction, heart failure or heart surgery within 3 months
- cardiac arrhythmia
- hypertrophic cardiomyopathy
- history of multiple strokes
- actively undergoing physical or occupational therapy or enrolled in another interventional study
- severe aortic stenosis
- untreated deep vein thrombosis or pulmonary embolus
- unstable angina
- uncontrolled hypertension
- implanted pacemaker or defibrillator
- dyspnea at rest
- clinically significant neurologic condition/diagnosis other than stroke
- recent history of elicit drug or alcohol misuse or significant mental health illness
- significant contractures
- anti-spasticity injection within 3 months of enrollment
- skull hardware (e.g. screws/plates) or prior craniotomies that could shunt current flow altering EEG measures
- other contraindication to exercise or EEGs
Where
- Cleveland, Ohio
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 Oct 16, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations