Effect of home based balance training in peripheral neuropathy
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Feasibility of home based training and falls management program in people with inherited peripheral neuropathy
IRAS ID
143566
Contact name
Magdalena Dudziec
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Joint Research & Enterprise Office St George's, University of London & St George's University Hosp.
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 0 months, 0 days
Research summary
Charcot Marie Tooth (CMT) is the most common inherited neuropathy. It affects the nerves of the hands and feet first, slowly progressing towards the centre of the body. It causes varying degrees of weakness and reduced feeling, usually affecting the feet and ankles first. High incidence of falls and knock on effects in quality of life are common. This is a lifelong condition which, though not life limiting, does not have a cure. \n\nResearch into the effect of balance rehabilitation in people with CMT has been limited to traditional exercises, which do not address the complex nature of balance impairments in this condition. Multi-sensory rehabilitation has proved beneficial in improving balance in people with sensory neuropathy. Research shows that strengthening trunk muscles can improve balance in older people. Trunk and muscles close to it are largely unaffected in people with CMT, therefore these muscles could be strengthened in these patients. \nThis study proposes to assess the feasibility of multi-sensory balance training, strength training with a focus on the trunk and muscles close to the trunk, and falls management education. This comprehensive approach is reflective of a clinical physiotherapy programme. Though a life-long condition, many people with CMT lead full lives. A home based programme is proposed to so that patients can fit it into their lives without having to travel for treatment. Therapists will use self-management principles within treatment. \nMeasurements will be taken prior to and following treatment including physical measures, questionnaires and interviews. The physiotherapy intervention will be taught and data collected at The National Hospital for Neurology and Neurosurgery. Patients will be recruited from neurology outpatient clinics.\n\n
REC name
London - Bromley Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
16/LO/0720
Date of REC Opinion
18 May 2016
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion