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

NCT ID NCT04957355

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.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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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.

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • University of Illinois at Chicago

    RECRUITING

    Chicago, Illinois, 60612, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••