Feasibility and acceptability of orthotic shorts for people with MS
Research type
Research Study
Full title
A clinical trial evaluating the feasibility and acceptability of orthotic shorts for walking function in people with multiple sclerosis.
IRAS ID
222166
Contact name
Nicola J Snowdon
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Sheffield Hallam University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 4 months, 14 days
Research summary
Background
Walking can be slow and unsteady in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). This study will investigate whether orthotic shorts might help.
Orthotic shorts are similar to the tight clothing believed to improve performance in athletes. Research suggests that such shorts help stroke survivors to walk faster. Some people with MS find that similar garments improve coordination and stability. NHS funding is controversial because there is no research investigating whether they work in people with MS.Aims
Our first aim is to determine whether these shorts are acceptable to people with MS. Would people wear them or are tight shorts impractical in daily life? Secondly, we will develop the tools required to test the shorts. For example, we will determine which measures seem most appropriate and if specific factors predict whether the shorts might help.Methods
People with MS will be invited to participate in a mixed methods study. We hope to recruit 16 people. Participants will trial two different garments: orthotic shorts and a placebo. The placebo shorts look similar but are less supportive. The shorts will be tested in a movement laboratory and in daily life.
In the movement laboratory, participants will be measured in both pairs of shorts and in normal, loose clothing. We will measure walking pattern, speed and variability.
Participants will test shorts in their normal daily life for up to two weeks. They will complete questionnaires about their walking and balance in the different shorts. Interviews will explore expectations and experiences of the shorts and of the research study.
In our analyses, we will combine information from interviews with the numerical information gained from laboratory measures, diaries and questionnaires. If the shorts are acceptable, this study will inform a larger trial investigating effectiveness.REC name
Yorkshire & The Humber - Leeds East Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
17/YH/0140
Date of REC Opinion
19 May 2017
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion