RESEARCH PROGRAM
The goal of our research program is to optimize the accessibility of physical activity and exercise for people with MS with mobility impairment to maximize health- and disease-related benefits. We accomplish this by developing, testing, and refining the optimal methods of prescription, delivery, and evaluation of physical activity and exercise. We are specifically interested in the application of adapted exercise rehabilitation strategies for individuals with advanced mobility impairment. Our research program has also focused on the role of exercise in the management of comorbid health conditions that commonly affect those with neurological disorders and mobility impairment.
Current Projects
Synergetic Effects of Aerobic Exercise Paired with Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation to Prime Neuroplasticity in Multiple Sclerosis
We are seeking volunteers to take part in a study looking at the potential of exercise and non-invasive brain stimulation to prime neuroplasticity (i.e., brain’s capacity of enhancing its connections). We are looking for volunteers with and without multiple sclerosis between 18-75 years of age. The study would involve a total of four visits, one at the University of Ottawa (200 Lees Avenue, Ottawa) and three at the University of Quebec (283 Boul Alexandre-Taché, Gatineau). Visits will last about 100-150 minutes and will each be roughly 7-10 days apart. Participants will be enrolled to the study on a first come, first served basis. Compensation: Amazon Gift Cards 25 CAD per visit (maximal of 100 CAD).
For more information about other eligibility criteria and participation, please contact the research team via email (click below) or phone (613-562-5800 x3274). Principal Investigator: Dr. Chaves. Enrollment for this study is open.
We are seeking volunteers to take part in a study looking at the potential of exercise and non-invasive brain stimulation to prime neuroplasticity (i.e., brain’s capacity of enhancing its connections). We are looking for volunteers with and without multiple sclerosis between 18-75 years of age. The study would involve a total of four visits, one at the University of Ottawa (200 Lees Avenue, Ottawa) and three at the University of Quebec (283 Boul Alexandre-Taché, Gatineau). Visits will last about 100-150 minutes and will each be roughly 7-10 days apart. Participants will be enrolled to the study on a first come, first served basis. Compensation: Amazon Gift Cards 25 CAD per visit (maximal of 100 CAD).
For more information about other eligibility criteria and participation, please contact the research team via email (click below) or phone (613-562-5800 x3274). Principal Investigator: Dr. Chaves. Enrollment for this study is open.
FES: Functional Electrical Stimulation Cycling for Managing Mobility Disability in People with Multiple Sclerosis
Participants will be asked to complete one of two, 24-week leg cycling programs. Exercise training will be performed three times per week. Participation would also involve 4 testing sessions (two lab visits/session), with each session separated by about three months. All study visits will take place at the University of Ottawa (Lees Avenue Campus) at a convenient time. Individuals between 18 and 64 years old with multiple sclerosis who experience difficulty with walking may be eligible to participate. Must be relapse-free in the past 30 days. Participation in this study will be accommodated on a first come, first served basis.
For more information about other eligibility criteria and participation, please contact the research team via email ([email protected]) or phone (613-562-5800 x3274). Principal Investigator: Dr. Pilutti. Enrollment for this study is open.
Participants will be asked to complete one of two, 24-week leg cycling programs. Exercise training will be performed three times per week. Participation would also involve 4 testing sessions (two lab visits/session), with each session separated by about three months. All study visits will take place at the University of Ottawa (Lees Avenue Campus) at a convenient time. Individuals between 18 and 64 years old with multiple sclerosis who experience difficulty with walking may be eligible to participate. Must be relapse-free in the past 30 days. Participation in this study will be accommodated on a first come, first served basis.
For more information about other eligibility criteria and participation, please contact the research team via email ([email protected]) or phone (613-562-5800 x3274). Principal Investigator: Dr. Pilutti. Enrollment for this study is open.
Social Network Analysis of Care-Partners of Individuals with Multiple Sclerosis (SNAP-MS)
The SNAP-MS study will explore the supports used by MS care partners, how supports are selected and why they are used. The aim of the study is to better understand how future supports can more effectively assist MS care partners. We are seeking volunteers who would like to partake in a brief online or postal survey about the supports they use in their caregiving role. In-person interviews are also available to those living in Eastern Ontario. Eligible participants must be: 1) over 18 years of age, 2) able to complete a series of questionnaires in English, 3) reside in Canada.
For more information about other eligibility criteria and participation, please contact the research team via email ([email protected]) or phone (613-562-5800 x3274). Principal Investigator: Dr. Pilutti. Enrollment for this study is open.
The SNAP-MS study will explore the supports used by MS care partners, how supports are selected and why they are used. The aim of the study is to better understand how future supports can more effectively assist MS care partners. We are seeking volunteers who would like to partake in a brief online or postal survey about the supports they use in their caregiving role. In-person interviews are also available to those living in Eastern Ontario. Eligible participants must be: 1) over 18 years of age, 2) able to complete a series of questionnaires in English, 3) reside in Canada.
For more information about other eligibility criteria and participation, please contact the research team via email ([email protected]) or phone (613-562-5800 x3274). Principal Investigator: Dr. Pilutti. Enrollment for this study is open.
- Changing the Caregiving Landscape: A Digital Toolkit to Enhance Resilience in Family Caregivers of Canadians Living with Multiple Sclerosis
You may be eligible to participate in a study that involves a 90-min online focus group if you
1. Provide unpaid assistance for a family member or close friend with MS; OR
2. Have paid/volunteer experience providing care for people with MS and/or their family caregivers in a formal care setting (e.g., clinic); OR
3. Have paid/volunteer experience providing care/advocacy for people with MS and/or their caregivers in a community-based organization/setting.
If you are interested in participating or would like more information, please contact us via email (click below) or phone (613-533-6000 x77893). In appreciation of your time, you will receive a $25 online gift card for participating in the study. Principal Investigator: Dr. Fakolade (Queen's University). Enrollment for this study is open.
Completed Projects
ReACT: Resilience Among multiple sclerosis Care partners over Time. This study examines resilience over time among care partners of people with MS. Care partners are close friends or family members who provide support or assistance for people with MS. Assistance could be physical (e.g., transportation), emotional (e.g., encouragement), or informational (e.g., sharing information about community resources). Resilience is the process of adapting to stressful life situations. We are interested in understanding factors that are associated with resilience among care partners of people with MS over time. This knowledge will inform the development of strategies to enhance resilience and to identify individuals most likely to benefit from future interventions. Recruitment for this study is currently closed. Study results coming soon!