Effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia on Neuroplasticity in MS (NCT06390930)
🩺 Plain-English Summary (8th-Grade Level)
This study seeks to explore changes in the neural pathways and arm function following a breathing intervention in the multiple sclerosis (MS) population. The breathing intervention, known as Acute Intermittent Hypoxia (AIH), involves breathing brief bouts of low levels of oxygen. Research has found AIH to be a safe and effective intervention resulting in increased ankle strength in people with MS. Here, the study examines arm and hand function before and after AIH. In order to better understand the brain and spinal cord response to AIH, the investigators will measure muscle response, and signals sent from the brain to the arm muscles before and after AIH.
Who can join: To join this study, participants generally need to meet the listed inclusion criteria (6 items) and avoid the listed exclusions (8 items).
Location: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab — Chicago, Illinois
📋 "Do I Qualify?" — 1-Minute Self Screener
Instant ChecklistCheck every box below. If you can check all of them, you may meet the study's basic screening requirements (final eligibility is confirmed by the site team).
Usually NOT eligible if any of the following apply:
- Exclusion Criteria:
- Another diagnosis (e.g., peripheral neuropathies or orthopedic) affecting upper limb function
- Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) score \<24
- Modified Ashworth Scale score \>3 on elbow joint
- Uncontrolled hypertension or hypotension (outside 140/90 and 85/55 mmHg)
- History of epilepsy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or sleep apnea
- Unstable medical conditions, ongoing upper limb therapy, or musculoskeletal pain
- Pregnancy as confirmed by urine test
🔍 Extracted verbatim from the official NIH eligibility criteria. Always confirm with the study coordinator.
📍 All Participating Trial Locations (1 Sites)
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab — Chicago, Illinois
💰 Cost, Insurance & Patient Rights
- 100% Free Items: The investigational treatment and protocol-required procedures are supplied at zero cost by the sponsor.
- Routine Patient Care: Under federal law (ACA § 2709) and many state statutes, routine care costs are covered during participation.
- Voluntary Participation: You may withdraw at any time without affecting your standard medical care.