NCT07494890 · University of Cincinnati
Measurement Properties of Mechanical Cost of Walking for Individuals With Walking Impairment
What this study is about
Walking impairment following neurologic injury can increase the energy cost of walking threefold, acting as a functional barrier to independence. The goal of this cross-sectional study is to determine the measurement properties of a novel biomechanical cost of walking measure in chronic stroke capable of pinpointing the origins of movement inefficiencies. This research aims to: 1.
View original scientific description
Walking impairment following neurologic injury can increase the energy cost of walking threefold, acting as a functional barrier to independence. The goal of this cross-sectional study is to determine the measurement properties of a novel biomechanical cost of walking measure in chronic stroke capable of pinpointing the origins of movement inefficiencies. This research aims to: 1. determine the convergent validity of biomechanical cost of walking with functional measures in relation to metabolic cost of walking, 2. determine the reliability of biomechanical cost of walking in relation to metabolic cost of walking, 3. determine the responsiveness of biomechanical cost of walking in relation to metabolic cost of walking. Individuals with walking impairment from stroke will complete three 5-minute comfortable speed treadmill walking trials. The 3rd walking trial will be against resistance to increase cost of walking. This single session study will compare the metric properties of biomechanical cost of walking in relation to metabolic cost of walking.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Resisted walking
Comfortable speed treadmill walking with resisted forward progression.
Primary outcome measures
Constituent Lower Extremity Work
Time frame: 1st minute and 5th minute of resisted walking trial versus non-resisted walking trial.
Energy expenditure calculated using biomechanical variables such as force and limb motion
Metabolic Cost of Walking
Time frame: 1st minute and 5th minute of resisted walking trial versus non-resisted walking trial.
Energy expenditure calculated using oxygen consumption and carbon dioxide production
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
- Age 30-80 years at the time of consent
- Hemiparesis from ischemic and/or hemorrhagic strokes
- Most recent stroke for which participant sought treatment, at least 3 months prior to study consent
- Walking speed \<1.0 m/s on the 10-meter walk test
- Able to walk 10m over ground with assistive devices as needed
- Able to walk at least 5 minutes continuously on the treadmill ≥ 0.1 mile per hour
- No contraindications to exercise according to ACSM guidelines
- Able to communicate with investigators, follow a 2-step command and correctly answer consent comprehension questions
Exclusion criteria
- Hospitalization for cardiac or pulmonary disease within past 3 months
- Implanted pacemaker or defibrillator
- Severe lower limb hypertonia (Ashworth \>2)
- Foot drop or lower limb joint instability without adequate stabilizing device
- Clinically significant neurologic disorder other than stroke
- Other significant medical condition likely to jeopardize safety (e.g. joint contracture, gait limited by pain)
Where
- Cincinnati, Ohio
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 Jul 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations