Tests a low-oxygen breathing method in people with multiple sclerosis
Tests brief low-oxygen breathing to see effects on arm function in multiple sclerosis.
Plain-language title generated from the registry record
Registry title: Effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia on Neuroplasticity in MS
Key facts
- Where
- Chicago, United StatesSee the site
Could this be for you?
Answer for yourself. This is not a decision: only the study team can say whether you can take part.
- Are you between 18 and 75 years old?
Source: NCT06390930, who can take part
Where in United States
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLabChicago, United StatesTaking people
Questions to ask the study team
- How often do I need to come in, and for how long each time?
- Are travel costs paid?
- Can I keep my own doctor?
- What happens if I want to stop?
Trial details
- Who runs it
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
- Trial code
- NCT06390930
- Record updated
- 23 February 2026
- Original description
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.Read full original descriptionShow less
Investigating the Effects of Acute Intermittent Hypoxia on Neuroplasticity in Persons With Multiple Sclerosis
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.
Inclusion: Diagnosis of relapsing-remitting MS according to the McDonald criteria, over 5 years ago; Relapse free for at least 6 months; Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) ≤7; Index finger abduction strength <5 according to Medical Research Council Scale, or 9-Hole Peg Test score >20 seconds in at least one hand; Stable disease modifying therapies for at least 6 months; Individuals taking dalfampridine will be eligible if taking the same daily dose for at least 2 months prior to screening.
Exclusion: 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; 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; Pregnancy as confirmed by urine test.