Telerehabilitation in Progressive Multiple Sclerosis

Launched by UNIVERSITA DI VERONA · Jun 26, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying how effective a combined rehabilitation approach can be for people with progressive forms of Multiple Sclerosis (MS). Specifically, it will look at whether a home-based digital telerehabilitation program, when paired with traditional in-hospital rehabilitation, can improve mobility better than just in-hospital rehabilitation alone. This is important because many individuals with progressive MS have limited treatment options and the goal is to find ways to help them move better and feel more independent.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be between 18 and 75 years old and have been diagnosed with either primary or secondary progressive MS. They should also have mild to moderate balance issues that make them more likely to fall. Having a caregiver present is essential, and participants should be comfortable using digital technology. However, those with other medical conditions that affect movement or serious cognitive issues will not be included. If you join the study, you can expect to participate in both home and hospital rehabilitation activities, and your progress will be closely monitored to see how well this combined approach works.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Age 18-75;
• • Diagnosis of MS (primary or secondary progressive);
• • Mild to moderate balance impairments with increased fall risk, defined as TUG \> 8.4s;
• • A disability rate, as calculated using the Kurtzke Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) lower than 7;
• • Acceptable level of digital skills;
• • The presence of the caregiver.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Other conditions that may affect motor function;
• • Impaired cognitive functioning (Mini-Mental Status Examination \<24/30);
• • Severe visual deficits (daltonism and visual acuity deficit);
• • Unable or refused to attend the rehabilitation treatment.
• • Patients who fulfill the following specified inclusion criteria will also undergo an EEG evaluation. However, ineligibility for this examination does not exclude them from participating in the rehabilitation study.
• The inclusion criteria for the EEG protocol will include:
• • The absence of metallic implants in the brain;
• • No history of brain surgery;
• • No use of medications that alter cortical excitability or are presumed to affect brain plasticity;
• • Right-handed dominance.