Published: December 15, 2025
Researchers at leading California universities have launched a new study investigating the impact of physical exercise on aphasia recovery. With sponsorship from the National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD), this randomized trial could provide valuable insights into rehabilitation strategies for individuals with acquired aphasia following cerebral infarction or intracerebral hemorrhage.
Clinical Trial Details
The randomized trial examines the effects of structured physical activity on aphasia recovery. Two behavioral interventions are being compared: high-intensity and low-intensity physical exercise. This study is recruiting participants with various forms of non-fluent and fluent acquired aphasia caused by cerebral infarction or nontraumatic intracerebral hemorrhage.
The connection between physical activity and enhanced brain plasticity has drawn increasing attention in clinical research. This trial seeks to assess whether exercise intensity plays a direct role in cognitive-linguistic recovery. Insights gained may inform therapeutic standards in post-stroke care.
How Does Exercise Intensity Matter?
Physical exercise has been shown to improve overall neurovascular health and promote neural plasticity. However, the specific role of intensity levels in aphasia management remains unclear. Researchers hypothesize that high-intensity exercise could stimulate greater functional brain adaptation, while low-intensity activity may offer more accessible and sustainable options for individuals with mobility challenges.
Both groups will participate in structured exercise protocols under close observation to ensure safety while maintaining regulatory compliance. Study outcomes will measure improvements in communication abilities and quality of life, integrating objective metrics and patient-reported feedback.
Participating Institutions
This trial is a collaboration among multiple institutions, including the University of California at Berkeley and San Francisco, California State University (East Bay), and the University of San Francisco. Their combined expertise in neurology, communication disorders, and rehabilitation strengthens the study’s design and execution.
Sponsorship from NIDCD underscores the significance of identifying effective, evidence-based interventions for aphasia patients, while promoting safety and high ethical standards throughout the trial. These institutions are actively enrolling eligible participants to contribute to this groundbreaking study.
FAQ
1. What is aphasia?
Aphasia is a communication disorder that affects speech, reading, writing, and comprehension. It typically results from brain injury, such as a stroke.
2. What types of aphasia are being studied?
The trial focuses on both fluent and non-fluent aphasia, including cases arising from cerebral infarction and intracerebral hemorrhage.
3. What interventions are being tested?
Participants will undergo structured high- or low-intensity physical exercise as part of behavioral therapy.
4. Who is sponsoring the trial?
The National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD) is supporting the study.
5. Where can I apply as a participant?
Interested applicants can contact the listed institutions. Visit clinicaltrials.gov for precise details.
Conclusion
This trial represents a promising avenue for improving aphasia treatment through physical exercise interventions. Insights from the study are expected to shape future clinical guidelines for stroke recovery programs, highlighting exercise as a feasible and impactful approach.
For healthcare professionals and regulatory bodies, the findings could also establish a precedent for aligning neurorehabilitation strategies with device or intervention policies.
Disclaimer
This document is intended for informational purposes only and should not be considered legal advice. Healthcare professionals should adhere to their institutional and regulatory guidelines when applying this information.
Link to Full Announcement
For full information about the announcement, see the link below.
https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT07281313?term=medical+device