EMPOWER: Effects of Weight Loss and Exercise Post-stroke
Recruiting · Charleston, South Carolina
Always free
Study care at no cost to you
For your time and travel
Many studies pay you back
Most need no insurance or papers
Legal status usually isn't required; we'll tell you each study's requirements
Interpreters available
Ask for your language
Your choice
Voluntary — you can stop anytime
What is this study?
The prevalence of obesity among U.S. adults is \~40% and is projected to climb.
It is , overseen by an independent and licensed medical staff.
Read the full clinical description
The prevalence of obesity among U.S. adults is \~40% and is projected to climb. It is well documented that obesity is associated with increased levels of disability as well as risk for numerous adverse health-related outcomes; including occurrence of stroke and all-cause mortality. Obesity is highly prevalent in stroke survivors (\~30-45% of stroke survivors have BMI\>30) and is associated with reductions in physical function and increased disability. Furthermore, neurological sequelae following stroke result in a myriad of residual impairments that contribute to significant reductions in physical activity, which further increase the risk for obesity. The alarmingly high (and increasing) rates of obesity amongst stroke survivors represents an area of critical clinical need and, despite an abundance of information regarding weight loss approaches in neurologically healthy individuals, there is a lack of information regarding the impact of intentional weight loss on overweight and obese survivors of stroke. Thus, the purpose of this study it investigate the effect of varying weight loss approaches on physical function and psychosocial outcomes in chronic stroke survivors.
Who this study is looking for
In plain language, from the study's own rules. The study team confirms the full details with you — this isn't a final yes or no.
✅ You may be able to join if…
- •Age 35 to 85
- •Stroke happened at least 6 months ago
- •You still have lower-leg weakness after stroke (Fugl-Meyer LE motor score <34)
- •You can walk without help and without an AFO during testing and training
- •BMI (body mass index) greater than 25
🚫 You may not be able to join if…
- •You cannot walk at least 150 feet before your stroke, or you had intermittent claudication while walking
- •You have certain heart problems or symptoms (including congestive heart failure, unstable heart rhythm, severe aortic stenosis, angina, or trouble breathing at rest or during daily activities)
- •You have COPD or need oxygen
- •You have other major brain/nerve issues (preexisting neurological disorders, dementia, or a previous stroke)
- •You have serious safety issues for exercise such as recent blood clots (DVT or pulmonary embolism within 6 months), uncontrolled diabetes with recent weight loss, very high blood pressure (systolic >200 or diastolic >110 at rest), seizures/anti-seizure medications, or you’re currently in another motor-recovery trial
Are you a good fit?
Simplified highlights. The study team always confirms the full details with you.
- ✓Adults roughly 35–85
- ✓Have Obesity / overweight
- !Some conditions may not be a fit: Heart / cardiovascular disease, High blood pressure, COPD (chronic lung disease), Dementia / Alzheimer's
What to expect, step by step
- 1
Usually a few weeks
The study team checks whether the study is a good fit for you, with a visit and sometimes lab tests. You can ask any questions before deciding.
- 2
Treatment
If you join and choose to continue, you receive the study treatment and are watched closely by medical staff.
- 3
Follow-up
After treatment, the team checks on your health and confirms the visit schedule with you. You can leave the study at any point.
Has this treatment been tested before?
The study team can share what safety testing has been done so far.
What you need to know before you apply
What is this study testing?+
The prevalence of obesity among U.S. adults is \~40% and is projected to climb.
Is it safe? Who makes sure of that?+
This is a research study. Every study is reviewed and monitored by an independent ethics board (called an IRB) whose job is to protect participants, and care is overseen by licensed medical staff. You'll be told the known risks before you agree to anything, and you can stop at any time.
Will I get a placebo instead of the real treatment?+
Some studies compare a treatment against a placebo (an inactive version), and some don't. If this one does, the study team will explain your chances of receiving the active treatment before you decide. Nothing is hidden from you.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications?+
It depends on the study. Some let you stay on your current medications and some ask you to adjust them. Never stop a medication on your own — the study team will review everything with you first.
Does it cost anything? Will I be paid?+
Study-related care is provided at no cost to you. Some studies also pay for your time; the coordinator can tell you if this one does. You should never be asked to pay to take part.
Do I need insurance? Will anyone ask about my immigration status?+
No. You do not need health insurance to take part in a research study, and you will not be asked about your immigration status to join. Taking part is about whether you're a medical fit for the study.
What if English isn't my first language?+
You have the right to understand everything before you agree. Study sites can often provide materials or an interpreter in your language — you can ask the coordinator for one.
Is my information private?+
Yes. Your health information is only shared with the study sites you choose to be contacted by, and only to help match and enroll you. It is never sold, and you can ask us to delete it at any time.
Some requirements (like specific lab values or timing) are confirmed directly by the study team, not by us.
Source: ClinicalTrials.gov · NCT05901675 · Locations: South Carolina