Current Studies

In the PoWER Lab, we are always recruiting new participants for our exciting research studies! To see if you can participate in one of our studies, please click on our “Currently Recruiting” tabs below!

Improving Activity in Individuals with Cerebral Palsy

  • Recruitment is currently paused

  • This study aims to increase physical activity in individuals with cerebral palsy through virtual motivational coaching. The study also seeks to explore changes in brain activity and mobility associated with increased physical activity. Participants will receive an activity monitor to track daily steps for 8 weeks, during which motivational coaching will occur. Before and after those 8 weeks, participants will complete a series of brain imaging (MEG, MRI) and mobility assessments.

  • Compensation: Up to $300 for pre and post assessments, 8 weeks of virtual motivational coaching with our team, and receiving a Fitbit to use during the study as well as keep after completed.

    Eligibility: Must be between the ages of 11-45 and have cerebral palsy. You must be able to walk for at least 1 minute with or without an assistive walking device. Cannot have a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Dynamic Imaging of Cerebral Palsy Gait

  • 13–18-year-olds with cerebral palsy

  • This study aims to explore the neurophysiological differences experienced by participants with and without cerebral palsy during walking. In this study, we use different brain imaging techniques such as MRI and MEG to examine neurological (brain) differences. We also conduct clinical assessments at Boys Town Pediatric Physical Therapy clinic across the street.

  • Compensation: up to $200, $50 per visit (MRI, clinical assessments, 2 MEG scans), gas mileage reimbursement as well as other travel expenses

    Eligibility: Are between the ages of 13-18 years old with cerebral palsy. Have no diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease. Do not have any metal in your head or mouth (i.e., permanent retainer or braces); some dental work may be acceptable if it is not magnetic. Can walk with/without an assistive device.

Neuromodulation of the Spinal Cord

  • Recruitment is currently paused

  • In this study, participants will complete some upper extremity assessments and an MRI scan.The goal of this study is to look at the spinal cord to compare structural and functional changes in the brain between those with and without cerebral palsy.

  • Compensation: up to $100, $50 per visit (MRI and clinical assessments)

    Eligibility: Are between the ages of 11-45 years old with cerebral palsy. Do not have any neurological or psychiatric disorders. Do not have any metal in your head or mouth (i.e., braces, permanent retainer, etc.)

Igniting Mobility in Adolescents & Young Adults with Cerebral Palsy

  • Recruitment is currently paused

  • The purpose of this clinical trial is to measure the mobility improvements seen in individuals with cerebral palsy after undergoing a novel gait training approach. The amount of improvement seen after participating in therapy differs between individuals. This study is evaluating the differences in how the brain controls movement after undergoing physical therapy to better understand those differences. Individuals who do not have cerebral palsy will be used as a comparison group.

  • Compensation: Up to $300 for pre and post assessments, 8 weeks of free physical therapy with our specialist team here at Boys Town, a free MRI scan of the brain, and transportation cost reimbursements.

    Eligibility: Must be between the ages of 11-45 and have cerebral palsy. You must be able to walk for at least 1 minute with or without an assistive walking device. Cannot have a diagnosis of dementia or Alzheimer’s disease.

Neuromagnetic Signatures of Down Syndrome

  • Recruitment is currently paused

  • The purpose of this study is to examine the changes in the brain as adults with Down syndrome get older. The project is directed at developing biomarkers for identifying the early onset of Alzheimer’s disease, which occurs at a younger age and more often in persons with Down syndrome. Participants will do simple visual, movement and tactile tasks while we use neuroimaging to evaluate how the brain is working. Participants also compete tests that assess motor skills and cognitive performance.

  • Compensation: up to $200, $50 per visit (MRI, MEG, cognitive testing, and clinical assessments)

    Eligibility: Are between the ages of 5-64 years old with Down syndrome. Do not have any neurological or psychiatric disorders. Do not have any metal in your head or mouth (i.e., braces, permanent retainer, etc.)