Post Stroke Exercise Study (PISCES)

The PISCES research project is a Monash University intervention study led by Prof. Amy Brodtmann. It builds on previous research about the relationship between physical exercise and post-stroke outcomes and risk factors.

The study asks stroke survivors to participate in an eight-week, home-based exercise program, delivered via telehealth, and explores the effects of this exercise intervention on brain volume and thinking (cognition).

The study aims to explore the links between brain volume, levels of inflammatory biomarkers, general fitness, daily physical activity, blood pressure, sleep, diet, and gut microbiome – a lot of valuable information about factors that affect brain health after a stroke!

Why participate?

• You will receive (free) 1-on-1 sessions with an exercise professional
• From the comfort of your home
• 1 hour, 3 times per week, over 8 weeks!

Are you able to participate?

• Are you over 18 years of age?
• Have you had an ischaemic stroke in the last two months?
• Are you able to participate in an exercise program?
• Are you willing to have an MRI scan?

Where will you be tested?

• The exercise intervention is delivered to you via telehealth (live video call) using a device we will provide for you, so you can participate from home.
• We will need to see you in person for some tests: an intake session, and at 4 months, and 12 months after your stroke. These tests can take place at whichever site suits you best:
  
  • Alfred Health, Melbourne VIC
  • Western Health, Sunshine VIC
  • Austin Health, Heidelberg VIC.
• We can provide taxi vouchers to make it easier for you to visit us.

Who can you talk to for more information?

Please call our PISCES team on 03 9903 9328, or email us at ccs-piscesstudy-l@monash.edu

Download Study Advertising Flyer (PDF 799 KB)
Download Participant Information Sheet (DOCX 123 KB)