Shock to the system: electrical zaps may help stroke patients stay on their feet

NCT ID NCT04957355

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Illinois at Chicago Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study is testing whether a device that sends small electrical pulses to leg muscles can help people with chronic stroke improve their balance and walking. Twenty participants will be exposed to slip- and trip-like disturbances on a treadmill, with and without the stimulation. The goal is to see if the stimulation can reduce falls and improve gait in different environments.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to help stroke survivors improve their balance and reduce falls.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early study with only 20 people. It is testing immediate effects, not long-term benefits, and may not lead to a practical treatment.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

CHRONIC STROKE

Contacts and locations

Locations

University of Illinois at Chicago
RECRUITING

Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States

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Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.