RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06390930

Effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia on Neuroplasticity in MS

Investigating the Effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia on Neuroplasticity in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis


Sponsor

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

Enrollment

22 participants

Start Date

Feb 1, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Summary

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.


Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 75 Years

Plain Language Summary

Simplified for easier understanding

This study is testing whether brief sessions of controlled low-oxygen breathing (called acute intermittent hypoxia, or AIH) can help improve arm and hand function in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). AIH is thought to trigger brain plasticity — helping the nervous system adapt and recover function. **You may be eligible if...** - You have had a diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS for more than 5 years - You have had no MS relapse for at least 6 months - You have some weakness in your hand or arm (confirmed by a specific strength test) - Your MS medications have been stable for at least 6 months **You may NOT be eligible if...** - You have epilepsy, COPD, or sleep apnea - You have uncontrolled high or low blood pressure - You have another condition affecting your arm or hand function - You are currently in another upper limb therapy program - You are pregnant - You score below 24 on the Mini-Mental State Exam (a test for memory and thinking) Talk to your doctor to see if this trial is right for you.

This summary was AI-generated to explain the trial in plain language. It is not medical advice. Always discuss eligibility with your doctor before enrolling in a clinical trial.

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Interventions

OTHERAcute Intermittent Hypoxia

During AIH, the participant will be equipped with a non-rebreathing face mask, and provided with the AIH intervention. The AIH intervention involves alternating breathing cycles. One cycle involves breathing air with lower oxygen concentration (9-10% oxygen) for 30 and 90 seconds, followed by breathing normal room air (21% oxygen) for a similar duration. This cycle is repeated 15 times in one session. Blood oxygen and heart rate are monitored throughout.

OTHERSham Acute Intermittent Hypoxia

During Sham AIH, the participant will be equipped with a non-rebreathing face mask, and provided with the AIH intervention. The Sham AIH intervention involves alternating breathing cycles. One cycle involves breathing air closely resembling room air (\~21% oxygen) for 30 and 90 seconds, followed by breathing normal room air (21% oxygen) for a similar duration. This cycle is repeated 15 times in one session. Blood oxygen and heart rate are monitored throughout.


Locations(1)

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

Chicago, Illinois, United States

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NCT06390930


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