Weight Loss and ExeRcise

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Mar 13, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial, called "Weight Loss and ExeRcise," is looking at how a 15-week lifestyle management program can help Veterans who have had a stroke. The research team believes that losing weight and exercising can improve physical and emotional well-being for these individuals, just as it has for others without neurological issues. The trial aims to see if combining weight loss with exercise training can enhance recovery and quality of life for stroke survivors.

To participate in this study, individuals must have experienced a stroke at least six months ago, have a body mass index (BMI) greater than 30, and have some weakness in their legs. Participants need to be able to follow instructions and communicate about their exercise experience. Before joining, they will undergo a fitness test and need approval from a cardiologist. This trial is currently recruiting participants of all genders, and it could be a helpful opportunity for those looking to improve their health after a stroke.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • A diagnosis of stroke at least 6 months prior
• • BMI \> 30 kg/m2
• • Residual paresis in the lower extremity (Fugl-Meyer LE motor score \<34)
• • Ability to follow instructions, complete training and testing and to communicate exertion, pain and distress
• • Provision of informed consent
• • Individuals who meet inclusion criteria must complete an exercise tolerance test and be cleared for participation by the study cardiologist
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Unable to ambulate at least 150 feet or experienced intermittent claudication while walking
• • Unstable cardiac arrhythmias, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, severe aortic stenosis, angina or dyspnea at rest or during ADL's
• • Dementia
• • Life expectancy \<1 yr
• • History of DVT or pulmonary embolism within 6 months
• • Uncontrolled diabetes with recent weight loss, diabetic coma, or frequent insulin reactions
• • Severe hypertension with systolic \>200 mmHg and diastolic \>110 mmHg at rest
• • Current enrollment in a rehabilitation trial to enhance motor or psychosocial recovery