Oculomotor training in Multiple Sclerosis
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Oculomotor Pilot Therapy for Improving Movement of the EYES in Multiple Sclerosis
IRAS ID
162610
Contact name
Jonathan Marsden
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
Plymouth University
Duration of Study in the UK
1 years, 1 months, 29 days
Research summary
Ataxia is seen in approximately two thirds of people with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). People with ataxia find it difficult to perform tasks such as manipulating tools, balancing, and avoiding obstacles. One reason for this is that people with ataxia often move their eyes involuntarily from side-to-side and have inaccurate eye movements to stationary and moving targets. The inaccuracy in eye movements means that targets are not seen accurately and vision is blurred. Visual information and information about the position of the eye are crucial in planning forthcoming arm and leg movements. This study will assess whether eye movements can be re-trained using a home exercise program and whether this leads to an improvement in activities such as walking and balancing.
We will study 30 people with progressive MS who have symptoms of ataxia. We will measure people's eye movements while they perform specific functional tasks such as balancing in front of moving visual stimuli (as can occur when walking down a busy street), accurately placing the foot while walking and reaching for objects as well as other tests and questionnaires that measure people’s ability and quality of life. We will then randomly divide the group into two; one group will perform a 4 week program of eye movement training and the other group will carry on with their usual care. The eye movement training will consist of computer generated images that the person has to follow with their eyes as accurately as possible. We will then take the same measures that we took at baseline at the end of the 4 week period to see whether there are any differences between the groups. We will also explore peoples' views as to participating in the trial and whether there are any aspects that could be altered for a future larger trial.
REC name
South West - Cornwall & Plymouth Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
14/SW/1122
Date of REC Opinion
13 Jan 2015
REC opinion
Further Information Favourable Opinion