Creating a device to help stroke survivors regain arm and hand function.
Official title: Development and initial testing of a shoulder-hand active-passive exoskeleton (SHAPE) to assist individuals with chronic upper-extremity impairments after stroke.
Funded at Jesse Brown VA Medical Center · NIH-11002656 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new device called SHAPE, which helps stroke survivors by providing support for their shoulders and hands, making it easier for them to do everyday tasks.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Jesse Brown VA Medical Center NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Chicago, United States) |
| Project start | January 1, 2024 |
| Project end | December 31, 2025 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| NIH project number | 5IK1RX004286-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11002656 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals who have suffered a stroke and experience chronic upper-extremity impairments.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a stroke or have other unrelated upper extremity conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research focuses on developing a hybrid exoskeleton called SHAPE, which combines a passive shoulder support with an active hand mechanism to assist individuals who have experienced a stroke. The goal is to enhance the ability of stroke survivors to perform daily activities by providing mechanical support to their upper extremities. The project involves collaboration among experts in physical therapy, neuroscience, and engineering to ensure the device is effective and user-friendly. Patients will be involved in the testing phase to evaluate the device's functionality and impact on their daily lives.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the quality of life for stroke survivors by enhancing their ability to perform everyday tasks independently.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promise in using assistive devices for stroke rehabilitation, indicating that this approach could lead to meaningful advancements.
Where this research is happening
-
Jesse Brown VA Medical Center
Chicago, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Kopke, Joseph Victor — Jesse Brown VA Medical Center
- Study coordinator: Kopke, Joseph Victor
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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.