According to the American Stroke Association, stroke is the number five cause of death and the leading cause of adult disability in the United States. There are three types of strokes: ischemic (occurs as a result of an obstruction in a blood vessel that supplies blood to the brain), hemorrhagic and transient ischemic attack (TIA). The one thing they all have in common is they prevent blood flow to the brain. When this occurs, it is common for patients to be left with communication or behavioral challenges or physical limitations, such as difficulty walking.
The Clinical Research Center is currently seeking patients who have experienced an ischemic stroke at least six months ago who continue to have walking problems. The investigational medication has been approved as a treatment to improve the walking skills in patients with multiple sclerosis and it is now being evaluated for stroke.
Neurologist Dr. Richard Lafrance is excited about this clinical research opportunity for stroke patients. He states that although most medical treatments for stroke are appropriately focused on preventing additional strokes, it’s also important to support recovery from past stroke events. Patients who recover as much independence and mobility as possible will have fewer falls and less restrictions on activities, allowing stroke patients to live life as fully and comfortably as possible.
If you are interested in learning more about our studies contact the Clinical Research Center at 541-766-2163 or send an email to research@corvallisclinic.com. Or, follow us on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/corvallisclinicresearch.
– Julie Carrico is Associate Coordinator of The Corvallis Clinical Research Center
