MS Balance Trial

Stroke Robotics Trial

Status – Recruiting

The Centre for Restorative Neurology at the Perron Institute is currently recruiting for a clinical trial to improve walking and balance in patients with Relapsing Remitting and Progressive Multiple Sclerosis by combining balance training and non-invasive brain stimulation.

Centre for Restorative Neurology

Clinical trial in the use of newer modalities of treatment in the rehabilitation of MS patients.

Enhancing balance and gait in patients with Multiple Sclerosis – combined use of balance training with non-invasive brain stimulation.

This is a collaborative project between the Centre for Restorative Neurology, Sir Charles Gairdner Hospital and Multiple Sclerosis WA, and is supported by MS Research Australia.

This study aims to evaluate whether brain stimulation (transcranial direct current stimulation – tDCS) added to a structured balance treatment program improves gait and balance, translating to increased mobility and independence in patients with MS.

We are looking to recruit people who are able to walk independently and have mild to moderate balance impairment. This intervention will be in addition to their regular outpatient therapy program prescribed by their physicians. All patients will participate in 2 weekly sessions of structured balance therapy for 6 weeks (12 sessions, each about 2 hours). Half of the group will receive the brain stimulation and half will receive the sham stimulation. To date there have been no adverse effects associated with tDCS.