Biomarkers of Reaction To HIIT Exercise

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Sep 22, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating how certain biological markers in the body can help predict whether stroke survivors will benefit from a specific type of exercise program called high-intensity interval training (HIIT). The goal is to find out which Veterans who have had a stroke and have difficulty walking may see improvements in their walking speed after participating in HIIT. The researchers are looking at factors like blood lactate levels, certain brain chemicals, and blood flow to the brain to help make these predictions.

To participate in this trial, individuals need to be Veterans who have experienced a stroke at least six months ago and have trouble walking at a speed of less than 0.6 meters per second. Unfortunately, those with certain medical conditions or devices, like a pacemaker, or those who cannot undergo an MRI due to anxiety or other reasons, will not be eligible. Participants can expect to engage in a structured exercise program and contribute to valuable research that could improve rehabilitation strategies for stroke survivors in the future.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • chronic left or right subcortical stroke as defined by 6 months or more after a cardiovascular accident
• • lower extremity motor impairment due to stroke that causes a walking speed of less than 0.6 m/s during a 10m walk
• • Veteran status
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • MRI contraindications, including implanted cardiac pacemakers and severe claustrophobia
• • any neurodegenerative condition other than stroke that may lead to lower extremity impairment
• • a visual or auditory impairment that may hinder study procedures
• • any medical condition that would preclude participation in a physical exercise intervention program