TRAIN-BW: Backward Walking Training in Multiple Sclerosis

Launched by WAYNE STATE UNIVERSITY · Sep 13, 2019

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

The TRAIN-BW trial is studying a new type of exercise called backward walking training for people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Many individuals with MS have trouble walking and are at a higher risk of falling, with more than half experiencing falls that can lead to injuries. While current exercise programs mainly focus on walking forward, this study is exploring whether walking backward can help improve balance and reduce the risk of falling. Researchers want to see if backward walking training is practical and helpful compared to traditional forward walking training.

To participate in this trial, individuals must have a diagnosis of MS and experience issues with walking, such as having fallen twice or more in the past six months. The study is open to people aged 65 to 74, and it welcomes all genders. Participants will take part in backward walking training sessions and will be monitored for changes in their motor function and risk of falling. This trial is important because it may offer a new approach to improving mobility and safety for those living with MS.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of MS
• • PDDS \<6, indicating ability to ambulate with or without an assistive device \>/= 50% of the time
• • Self-reported walking dysfunction as evidenced by a score of \>/= 30 on MSWS-12 OR reports of 2 or more falls in the prior 6 months, indicating a frequent faller.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • MS relapse within the past 30 days
• • comorbid neurological disorder
• • acute orthopedic disorder/injury
• • unable to follow study-related commands