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Study on Memory and Exercise for Multiple Sclerosis

This study is exploring new ways to improve learning and memory in people with multiple sclerosis (MS). Researchers are combining a memory training technique called the Kessler Foundation modified Story Memory Technique® (KF-mSMT®) with either aerobic exercise using virtual reality (AET plus Virtual Reality) or stretching and toning (S/T). The goal is to see if this combined approach can better help you regain memory function. You might be able to join if you are 18-70 years old, have a confirmed MS diagnosis, speak English, haven't had a relapse or steroids recently, and have mild-to-moderate mobility issues. The study will measure changes in your new learning and memory, and how well you remember things in daily life, both before and after the interventions.

Study design
This interventional study plans to enroll 78 participants. It compares two different exercise programs combined with a memory training technique.
What's involved
You would participate in 10 sessions of KF-mSMT® over 5 weeks, each lasting 45-60 minutes. You would also participate in 12 weeks of either supervised aerobic exercise or stretching and toning activities.
Compensation
Not stated in the trial record.
Follow-up
Your learning and memory will be measured at Weeks 1 and 2 (before treatment) and again at Weeks 15 and 16 (after treatment).

AI-generated from the public study record. Only the study team can confirm whether you're eligible — confirm details with them before making decisions.

NCT06197685

A Novel Combinatory Approach to Maximize Functional Recovery of Learning and Memory in Multiple Sclerosis

Recruiting
NAAges 18–70InterventionalTreatment
Kessler Foundation
~78 participants
Updated 2026-08-05 on ClinicalTrials.gov
What's tested:The Kessler Foundation modified Story Memory Technique® (KF-mSMT®)Aerobic Exercise Training (AET) plus Virtual Reality (IDEAL)Stretching and Toning (S/T)

At a glance

Recruiting sites
1 of 1 listed site is recruiting right now
RecruitingSuspended, closed, or not yet open
What they're measuring
Change in objective new learning and memory (NLM).
Measured over Weeks 1 and 2 (pre-intervention) and Weeks 15 and 16 (post-intervention)
+1 more outcome measured

Conditions

Multiple Sclerosis

Explore related trials

Ability to mobilizeMultiple Sclerosis

Where it's being run

1 sites across 1 states
New Jersey1

Study leadership

  • Carly Wender, PhD · PRINCIPAL_INVESTIGATOR · Kessler Foundation

Who to contact

Carly Wender, PhD
[email protected]
(973) 324-8388
Email the study team

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Do you actually qualify for this trial?

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Eligibility criteria

Inclusion

Be within the ages of 18 and 70 years of age
Speak English as their primary language
Confirmed MS diagnosis by a neurologist
Be relapse and steroid-free for at least 30 days
Mild-to-moderate self-reported mobility disability, based on the Patient Determined Disease Steps scale (PDDS)
Currently physically inactive, based on the Godin Leisure Time Exercise Questionnaire (GLTEQ)
Right handedness

Exclusion

History of neurological disorders besides MS or history of uncontrolled psychiatric disorders (ex: major depression)
Have contraindications to exercise, based on the Physical Activity Readiness Questionnaire (PAR-Q)
Currently use medications that may impact cognition (ex: steroids, benzodiazepines)
Currently pregnant
Contraindication for MRI (metal or electronic devices in the body that are not considered MRI safe)
Severe cognitive impairment as measured by the Modified Telephone Interview of Cognitive Status (TICS-M)

What this trial measures

  • Change in objective new learning and memory (NLM).Weeks 1 and 2 (pre-intervention) and Weeks 15 and 16 (post-intervention)

    The California Verbal Learning Test-Second Edition (CVLT-II) measures verbal learning and memory by having participants recall a list of words from 4 semantic categories. The word list is presented over 5 trials with a 20 minute delayed recall and recognition trial. Standardized T-scores range from 0-100, where higher scores indicated better performance.

  • Change in everyday memoryWeeks 1 and 2 (pre-intervention) and Weeks 15 and 16 (post-intervention)

    The Ecological Memory Simulations (EMS) is a multi-component test that measures memory as it relates to everyday life. Scores range from 0-205, where higher scores indicated better performance.