Exploring New Possibilities for Managing MS-Related Spasticity

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Aqualane Clinical Research

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Posted on

Mar 11, 2026

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Florida - Southwest

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Living with multiple sclerosis (MS) can bring a range of physical challenges, one of the most common being spasticity, often described as muscle stiffness or tightness. For many people with MS, spasticity can affect mobility, comfort, and daily activities. Researchers continue working to discover new and improved treatments that may help manage these symptoms and improve quality of life.

The BALANCE-MSS-1 clinical trial is a research study focused on exploring a potential new approach to treating MS-related spasticity. Conducted locally through Aqualane Clinical Research in Naples, Florida, this study aims to better understand how new therapies may help individuals living with multiple sclerosis.


Understanding MS-Related Spasticity

Spasticity occurs when communication between the brain and muscles becomes disrupted due to damage caused by multiple sclerosis. This can lead to muscles tightening or contracting involuntarily, making movement more difficult.

Common symptoms of spasticity include:

  • Muscle stiffness or tightness

  • Difficulty moving arms or legs

  • Pain or discomfort in affected muscles

  • Muscle spasms that interfere with daily activities

For some individuals, these symptoms may be mild. For others, they can significantly affect mobility, sleep, and overall quality of life.

Because spasticity can vary greatly from person to person, researchers are constantly looking for better treatment options that may offer improved symptom management.


About the BALANCE-MSS-1 Clinical Trial

The BALANCE-MSS-1 Trial is designed to evaluate a different therapeutic approach to addressing muscle stiffness caused by multiple sclerosis. Through clinical research studies like this one, scientists can gather valuable data on potential treatments that may help reduce symptoms and support better physical function.

Participants who qualify for the study will receive trial-related care at no cost, and reimbursement for travel and certain expenses may be available. The research team will also carefully review each individual’s medical history and current condition to determine eligibility.


Who May Be Eligible to Participate

Individuals may qualify for the BALANCE-MSS-1 clinical trial if they:

  • Are between the ages of 18 and 70

  • Have been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis (MS)

  • Have experienced spasticity (muscle stiffness) for at least six months

The study doctor and research team will review additional criteria to ensure the study is appropriate for each potential participant.


The Importance of Clinical Research

Clinical trials play a vital role in the advancement of medical treatments. Without research participants, new therapies cannot be properly tested or approved for future use.

By participating in a clinical study, individuals may:

  • Help researchers better understand MS-related symptoms

  • Contribute to the development of future treatments

  • Receive study-related monitoring and support from medical professionals

While participation is voluntary, many individuals find meaning in contributing to research that could help others living with similar conditions.


Learn More About Participation

If you or someone you know is living with multiple sclerosis and experiencing muscle stiffness, the BALANCE-MSS-1 clinical trial may be an opportunity to explore a new treatment approach.

Aqualane Clinical Research
📍 3200 Bailey Ln, Suite 250
Naples, FL 34105

📞 (239) 529-6780

The experienced research team can answer questions, explain the study process, and determine whether participation may be a good fit.


Advancing MS Care Through Research

Multiple sclerosis continues to affect millions of people worldwide, and ongoing research is essential to improving treatment options. Studies like BALANCE-MSS-1 help move science forward and offer hope for better ways to manage challenging symptoms like spasticity.

For individuals living with MS and their families, participating in clinical research can be an important step toward advancing care for future generations.

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Local Services By This Author

Aqualane Clinical Research

Dementia Care

HistoryWith a combined 50+ years of clinical research, Dr. Justiz, Dr. Baker, and Kelly Calistri founded Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022. Since 2005, Dr. Justiz and Dr. Baker have been conducting studies together as Principal Investigators for their private practice. With a shared vision for a larger research institute, Kelly, a long-time consultant to the doctors, joined them in forming Aqualane Clinical Research.Message FromOur FoundersAt Aqualane, we always put our patients first.We promise to educate each potential participant and their family members on all options available to them and to support them in their decision-making process. Striving to make clinical trials a practical healthcare option, we provide a comfortable, caring and compassionate environment.Our founders are passionate about their contributions to the advancement of medicine and to the opportunities they provide to people searching for new treatment options. With expertise and experience in research and the central nervous system, you can trust our team of neurologists and researchers to provide the best possible opportunity for you or your loved one.OurTeamDr. William A. Justiz, MDMedical Director, Principal InvestigatorDr. William Justiz completed his undergraduate degree at Northwestern University before receiving his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine. He is board certified in neurology and is a certified physician investigator through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.With over 20 years of research experience and specialization in degenerative diseases of the nervous system, he has been in continuous practice in Naples, Florida since 1999. He is a founding member of the clinical research program that has grown into Aqualane Clinical Research.Community outreach and service is one of the core values of Dr. Justiz and Aqualane Clinical Research. Dr. Justiz demonstrates this with his 23-year commitment to providing low-cost or free services to epilepsy patients through Epilepsy Services of Southwest Florida. In addition, he has delivered a free educational lecture series every month on all Alzheimer's topics since 2015 through the Alzheimer's Support network.Kelly E. Calistri, B.A.Chief Operating Officer, Site DirectorKelly is a native Floridian, born and raised in Central Florida. Shortly before graduating from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a degree in Psychology, she was introduced to the research industry. Almost immediately, she knew this would be her career path.While working at a privately owned clinical research site in Atlanta, she gained experience in several areas, including patient intake, research coordinator, regulatory, and cognitive rater. Working for years across many therapeutic areas, her passion for research grew. With this experience, Kelly received promotions into management roles. Her responsibilities included conducting training, oversight of a staff of 50 people, managing Phase I studies in a unit with 40 beds, and being responsible for business development by attending industry meetings to represent her site. Before opening Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022, she used her expertise and experience to build two startup research sites. Building a team of experts who excel in their field is among her strongest qualities. Her passion for people and the advancement of medicine drives her daily to continue learning. Kelly has seen how new medications can change the lives of people around her.In her free time, you can find Kelly and her husband, who are high school sweethearts, at local baseball fields cheering on their two sons. They are a close family who loves to travel and spend time together. Kelly also loves reading business and personal development books.Dr. Matthew J. Baker, MDPrincipal InvestigatorDr. Baker is a board-certified neurologist practicing for over 20 years. He has been a Principal Investigator in numerous clinical trials, many of which have resulted in regulatory approval of novel therapeutics across the spectrum of neurologic disease, both here and abroad. His primary areas of interest include Neuroimmunology, migraine, and the Neurobehavioral manifestations of disease. Dr. Baker is a nationally recognized educator and lecturer. He enjoys teaching colleagues, medical residents and patients on such topics as Multiple Sclerosis and Myasthenia Gravis. In his spare time, he loves riding roller coasters with this family and playing with his two dogs.Micaela M. Acres, RN, BSNInfusion NurseJacqueline E. BradyCommunity Outreach Coordinator/ ReceptionMatthew B. Cagney, B.S.Clinical Research CoordinatorElena Capron, B.S.Regulatory Coordinator / Social Media CoordinatorBrittany N. Cordero, B.S.Office Manager / Human ResourcesJessica M. DEntremont, RN, MPH, BSNInfusion NurseDarious T. Davis, M.A.Head of Business DevelopmentLaura Gold, B.S.Finance CoordinatorKarma L. Hamilton, M.S.Lead RaterBethany J.M. Henchesmoore, MBAClinical Research CoordinatorJennifer Jimenez-Perez, RN, BSNInfusion NurseCarmen L. Ojeda, M.S.Quality Assurance / Quality ControlMichelle A. O'Neill, M.S.RaterMayve SantosResearch PharmacistAlexandria L. SmithClinical Research Coordinator

Aqualane Clinical Research

Health Screenings

HistoryWith a combined 50+ years of clinical research, Dr. Justiz, Dr. Baker, and Kelly Calistri founded Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022. Since 2005, Dr. Justiz and Dr. Baker have been conducting studies together as Principal Investigators for their private practice. With a shared vision for a larger research institute, Kelly, a long-time consultant to the doctors, joined them in forming Aqualane Clinical Research.Message FromOur FoundersAt Aqualane, we always put our patients first.We promise to educate each potential participant and their family members on all options available to them and to support them in their decision-making process. Striving to make clinical trials a practical healthcare option, we provide a comfortable, caring and compassionate environment.Our founders are passionate about their contributions to the advancement of medicine and to the opportunities they provide to people searching for new treatment options. With expertise and experience in research and the central nervous system, you can trust our team of neurologists and researchers to provide the best possible opportunity for you or your loved one.OurTeamDr. William A. Justiz, MDMedical Director, Principal InvestigatorDr. William Justiz completed his undergraduate degree at Northwestern University before receiving his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine. He is board certified in neurology and is a certified physician investigator through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.With over 20 years of research experience and specialization in degenerative diseases of the nervous system, he has been in continuous practice in Naples, Florida since 1999. He is a founding member of the clinical research program that has grown into Aqualane Clinical Research.Community outreach and service is one of the core values of Dr. Justiz and Aqualane Clinical Research. Dr. Justiz demonstrates this with his 23-year commitment to providing low-cost or free services to epilepsy patients through Epilepsy Services of Southwest Florida. In addition, he has delivered a free educational lecture series every month on all Alzheimer's topics since 2015 through the Alzheimer's Support network.Kelly E. Calistri, B.A.Chief Operating Officer, Site DirectorKelly is a native Floridian, born and raised in Central Florida. Shortly before graduating from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a degree in Psychology, she was introduced to the research industry. Almost immediately, she knew this would be her career path.While working at a privately owned clinical research site in Atlanta, she gained experience in several areas, including patient intake, research coordinator, regulatory, and cognitive rater. Working for years across many therapeutic areas, her passion for research grew. With this experience, Kelly received promotions into management roles. Her responsibilities included conducting training, oversight of a staff of 50 people, managing Phase I studies in a unit with 40 beds, and being responsible for business development by attending industry meetings to represent her site. Before opening Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022, she used her expertise and experience to build two startup research sites. Building a team of experts who excel in their field is among her strongest qualities. Her passion for people and the advancement of medicine drives her daily to continue learning. Kelly has seen how new medications can change the lives of people around her.In her free time, you can find Kelly and her husband, who are high school sweethearts, at local baseball fields cheering on their two sons. They are a close family who loves to travel and spend time together. Kelly also loves reading business and personal development books.Dr. Matthew J. Baker, MDPrincipal InvestigatorDr. Baker is a board-certified neurologist practicing for over 20 years. He has been a Principal Investigator in numerous clinical trials, many of which have resulted in regulatory approval of novel therapeutics across the spectrum of neurologic disease, both here and abroad. His primary areas of interest include Neuroimmunology, migraine, and the Neurobehavioral manifestations of disease. Dr. Baker is a nationally recognized educator and lecturer. He enjoys teaching colleagues, medical residents and patients on such topics as Multiple Sclerosis and Myasthenia Gravis. In his spare time, he loves riding roller coasters with this family and playing with his two dogs.Micaela M. Acres, RN, BSNInfusion NurseJacqueline E. BradyCommunity Outreach Coordinator/ ReceptionMatthew B. Cagney, B.S.Clinical Research CoordinatorElena Capron, B.S.Regulatory Coordinator / Social Media CoordinatorBrittany N. Cordero, B.S.Office Manager / Human ResourcesJessica M. DEntremont, RN, MPH, BSNInfusion NurseDarious T. Davis, M.A.Head of Business DevelopmentLaura Gold, B.S.Finance CoordinatorKarma L. Hamilton, M.S.Lead RaterBethany J.M. Henchesmoore, MBAClinical Research CoordinatorJennifer Jimenez-Perez, RN, BSNInfusion NurseCarmen L. Ojeda, M.S.Quality Assurance / Quality ControlMichelle A. O'Neill, M.S.RaterMayve SantosResearch PharmacistAlexandria L. SmithClinical Research Coordinator

Aqualane Clinical Research

Memory Care -Customized Solutions

HistoryWith a combined 50+ years of clinical research, Dr. Justiz, Dr. Baker, and Kelly Calistri founded Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022. Since 2005, Dr. Justiz and Dr. Baker have been conducting studies together as Principal Investigators for their private practice. With a shared vision for a larger research institute, Kelly, a long-time consultant to the doctors, joined them in forming Aqualane Clinical Research.Message FromOur FoundersAt Aqualane, we always put our patients first.We promise to educate each potential participant and their family members on all options available to them and to support them in their decision-making process. Striving to make clinical trials a practical healthcare option, we provide a comfortable, caring and compassionate environment.Our founders are passionate about their contributions to the advancement of medicine and to the opportunities they provide to people searching for new treatment options. With expertise and experience in research and the central nervous system, you can trust our team of neurologists and researchers to provide the best possible opportunity for you or your loved one.OurTeamDr. William A. Justiz, MDMedical Director, Principal InvestigatorDr. William Justiz completed his undergraduate degree at Northwestern University before receiving his medical degree from the University of Miami School of Medicine. He is board certified in neurology and is a certified physician investigator through the Association of Clinical Research Professionals.With over 20 years of research experience and specialization in degenerative diseases of the nervous system, he has been in continuous practice in Naples, Florida since 1999. He is a founding member of the clinical research program that has grown into Aqualane Clinical Research.Community outreach and service is one of the core values of Dr. Justiz and Aqualane Clinical Research. Dr. Justiz demonstrates this with his 23-year commitment to providing low-cost or free services to epilepsy patients through Epilepsy Services of Southwest Florida. In addition, he has delivered a free educational lecture series every month on all Alzheimer's topics since 2015 through the Alzheimer's Support network.Kelly E. Calistri, B.A.Chief Operating Officer, Site DirectorKelly is a native Floridian, born and raised in Central Florida. Shortly before graduating from The University of Tennessee, Knoxville, with a degree in Psychology, she was introduced to the research industry. Almost immediately, she knew this would be her career path.While working at a privately owned clinical research site in Atlanta, she gained experience in several areas, including patient intake, research coordinator, regulatory, and cognitive rater. Working for years across many therapeutic areas, her passion for research grew. With this experience, Kelly received promotions into management roles. Her responsibilities included conducting training, oversight of a staff of 50 people, managing Phase I studies in a unit with 40 beds, and being responsible for business development by attending industry meetings to represent her site. Before opening Aqualane Clinical Research in 2022, she used her expertise and experience to build two startup research sites. Building a team of experts who excel in their field is among her strongest qualities. Her passion for people and the advancement of medicine drives her daily to continue learning. Kelly has seen how new medications can change the lives of people around her.In her free time, you can find Kelly and her husband, who are high school sweethearts, at local baseball fields cheering on their two sons. They are a close family who loves to travel and spend time together. Kelly also loves reading business and personal development books.Dr. Matthew J. Baker, MDPrincipal InvestigatorDr. Baker is a board-certified neurologist practicing for over 20 years. He has been a Principal Investigator in numerous clinical trials, many of which have resulted in regulatory approval of novel therapeutics across the spectrum of neurologic disease, both here and abroad. His primary areas of interest include Neuroimmunology, migraine, and the Neurobehavioral manifestations of disease. Dr. Baker is a nationally recognized educator and lecturer. He enjoys teaching colleagues, medical residents and patients on such topics as Multiple Sclerosis and Myasthenia Gravis. In his spare time, he loves riding roller coasters with this family and playing with his two dogs.Micaela M. Acres, RN, BSNInfusion NurseJacqueline E. BradyCommunity Outreach Coordinator/ ReceptionMatthew B. Cagney, B.S.Clinical Research CoordinatorElena Capron, B.S.Regulatory Coordinator / Social Media CoordinatorBrittany N. Cordero, B.S.Office Manager / Human ResourcesJessica M. DEntremont, RN, MPH, BSNInfusion NurseDarious T. Davis, M.A.Head of Business DevelopmentLaura Gold, B.S.Finance CoordinatorKarma L. Hamilton, M.S.Lead RaterBethany J.M. Henchesmoore, MBAClinical Research CoordinatorJennifer Jimenez-Perez, RN, BSNInfusion NurseCarmen L. Ojeda, M.S.Quality Assurance / Quality ControlMichelle A. O'Neill, M.S.RaterMayve SantosResearch PharmacistAlexandria L. SmithClinical Research Coordinator