Objective
This study aims to understand how acute intermittent hypoxia (AIH), brief periods of reduced oxygen, affect how the brain and nervous system communicate in persons with and without multiple sclerosis. The study is structured around the following goals:
- Goal 1: Determine if AIH can increase the brain and spinal cord’s ability to activate muscles in the arm and hand, improve muscle strength, and reduce fatigue. This is measured using a technique called transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS).
- Goal 2: Determine if AIH can increase spinal reflexes by calculating the changes in hand signals before and after AIH intervention.
- Goal 3: Determine whether AIH improves the ability to sense movement and position (proprioception) in the hand and wrist.
Who Can Participate
Inclusion:
Diagnosis of relapsing-remitting, primary progressive or secondary progressive MS according to the McDonald criteria with no minimum years since diagnosis
Relapse free for at least 6 months
Patient Determined Disease Steps (PDDS) ≤7
Stable disease modifying therapies for at least 6 months
Individuals taking dalfampridine will be eligible if taking the same daily dose for at least 2 months prior to screening
Exclusion criteria:
Another diagnosis (e.g., peripheral neuropathies or orthopedic) affecting upper limb function
Wrist flexion-extension range of motion less than 30 degrees in both limbs
Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score <14
Uncontrolled hypertension (outside 140/90 and 85/55 mmHg)
History of epilepsy, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, or sleep apnea
Unstable medical conditions, ongoing upper limb therapy, or musculoskeletal pain
Pregnancy as confirmed by urine test
Compensation
Participants will be paid for each completed session through the Shirley Ryan AbilityLab ClinCard.
- $100 for each completed session (x2)
- Incomplete sessions will be paid $20 for time and travel, with the ability to make up missed sessions.
- An $20 per visit will be paid if the participant travels over 20 miles to visit the lab.
Age Range
18-75
