A game that helps stroke survivors retrain their arm muscles
Official title: EMG-Controlled Game to Retrain Upper Extremity Muscle Activation Patterns Following Stroke
Funded at Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center · NIH-11034074 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a fun new game that helps stroke survivors use their affected arm by turning their muscle signals into movements on a computer screen, making rehab more engaging and effective for everyday activities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Charleston, United States) |
| Project start | April 1, 2023 |
| Project end | March 31, 2027 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5I01RX004523-03 |
| Project ID | NIH-11034074 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are stroke survivors, particularly veterans, who experience persistent hand impairments after rehabilitation.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a stroke or those with severe cognitive impairments may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing an innovative game that uses electromyography (EMG) signals to help stroke survivors retrain their upper extremity muscle activation patterns. By mapping muscle signals to a cursor on a computer screen, patients can engage in interactive games that promote the use of their affected arm. The approach aims to address the limitations of current rehabilitation methods by targeting multiple muscle groups simultaneously, rather than just one pair. The goal is to enhance upper limb function and improve daily living activities for stroke survivors.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the independence and quality of life for stroke survivors by enhancing their upper limb function.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promising results with similar EMG-controlled approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
Charleston, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Seo, Na Jin — Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Seo, Na Jin
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.