Respiratory Training in Friedreich's Ataxia

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF FLORIDA · Aug 1, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of respiratory strength training in patients with Friedreich's Ataxia, a genetic condition that can affect movement and coordination. Over a period of 12 weeks, participants will engage in exercises designed to improve their breathing strength. They will attend two research visits: one at the start and another at the end of the study. During these visits, participants will undergo various evaluations, including tests to check their swallowing and breathing functions, as well as surveys to gather their experiences.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must have a confirmed diagnosis of Friedreich's Ataxia through genetic testing and should be able to perform breathing tests. They should also have a certain score on a swallowing assessment. However, those who have taken certain medications recently or have specific allergies or health conditions may not be able to participate. Overall, this study aims to see if respiratory training can help improve the quality of life for individuals living with Friedreich's Ataxia.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • confirmed genetic testing of Friedreich's Ataxia
• • have an overall DIGEST score of 1 or higher based on FEES screening
• • are able to perform pulmonary function testing
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • have been on antibiotics within 15 days prior to baseline screening.
• • have been prescribed systemic corticosteroids or neuromuscular blocking agents within 15 days of the baseline screening
• • have an allergy or contraindication to topical lidocaine or oxymetazoline
• • have any other concurrent medical condition which, in the opinion of the investigators, would make the subject inappropriate to participate in testing or respiratory exercise