This study aims to understand the mechanisms of a novel intervention involving breathing short durations of low levels of oxygen for persons with multiple sclerosis (MS). This intervention with low levels of oxygen is called Acute Intermittent Hypoxia (AIH), the levels of oxygen experienced are similar to breathing the air on a tall mountain, for less than 1 minute at a time. Previous studies have shown that AIH is a safe and effective way to increase strength in persons with MS. Here the investigators aim to look at brain activation and ankle strength before and after AIH to gain a better understanding of how the AIH may improve strength in those persons with MS.
Diagnoses of relapsing form of MS (including relapsing-remitting MS and secondary-progressive MS)
Expanded Disability Status Scale (EDSS) score of at least 3 and no more than 6.5
Motor Functional System Scale (FSS) between 2-4
Relapse free for at least 1 year
Active contrast-enhancing MS lesions, or diffusion positive lesions suggestive of acute cerebrovascular disease on baseline MRI scan
Uncontrolled hypertension (Systolic between 85 and 140, diastolic between 90 and 55)
History of epilepsy
Chronic obstructive pulmonary disease
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
Lead sponsor
Eunice Kennedy Shriver National Institute of Child Health and Human Development (NICHD)
Collaborator
Northwestern University
Collaborator