Triple therapy aims to stop muscle loss in older ICU patients

NCT ID NCT02509520

First seen Jul 02, 2026 · Last updated Jul 02, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether starting physical therapy, electric muscle stimulation, and high-protein supplements early in the ICU can prevent the muscle loss, weakness, and mental decline known as post-intensive care syndrome (PICS). The trial enrolls adults aged 45 and older who are on mechanical ventilation. Participants receive a combination of mobility exercises, electrical stimulation to leg muscles, and extra protein to support muscle health.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

mobility-based physical rehabilitation, neuromuscular electric stimulation, and high-protein supplements

What this could lead to

If effective, this approach could help older ICU patients recover faster, avoid long-term disability, and reduce time spent on ventilators or in care facilities.

What could go wrong

This is a small early-stage study with 60 participants, so results may not apply broadly. The interventions require careful monitoring and may not prevent all complications.

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.

Critical Illness Muscle Weakness Sarcopenia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

More trials for these conditions

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • U of Maryland, Baltimore, Professional Schools IRB

    Baltimore, Maryland, 21201, United States