Case study: 'The more who take part, the better the outcomes' - Martin's Story

Martin is 53 and lives in Staffordshire. He has taken part in a number of clinical studies, including the Four Square Step Test (FSST) trial for people with haemophilia, and has shared his experiences of what it is like to be involved in research.

What made you want to get involved in research?

I’ve always said that if I can take part in research I will. It helps to get valuable data and it’s a way of helping future generations.

What's involved in the research?

The study was looking at the risk of falls in people with haemophilia as bleeding into the joints can lead to reduced movement. I attended my usual appointments and took a balance test each time so they could monitor me and implement any necessary interventions to help prevent falls. They found it was a safe measure to use with people with haemophilia. FSST provides information to the doctor or physio on the speed/ability to change direction and clear an obstacle.

How have you found the process?

It was very easy and convenient - they just carried it out as part of a normal clinic. It has improved my confidence, which is great, but I don’t really do it for myself - more to help find better treatments in future. The team has kept in close contact throughout.

Would you participate in research again?

I definitely would - I’ve done a number of them over the years and I would recommend it to others too. The more who take part, the better the outcomes.

Hear more from Martin in this video.

Interested in signing up to research? Find out more here.