Encouraging arm use during recovery from stroke

Addressing arm non-use by encouraging idle-time activity during early recovery from stroke

NIH-funded research Marquette University · NIH-10655426

This study is looking at ways to help stroke survivors use their weaker arm more often in everyday life by using a friendly wearable device that gives gentle reminders to do arm exercises, making it easier for them to recover and regain independence.

Quick facts

Grant typeR21 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMarquette University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Milwaukee, United States)
Project IDNIH-10655426 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates how to motivate stroke survivors to use their affected arm more frequently during daily activities. It employs a personal exercise cueing system that provides vibrotactile prompts to encourage arm exercises, particularly during idle times when patients are less likely to engage their affected limb. The study aims to enhance motor recovery by increasing the amount of exercise performed by the hemiparetic arm in the early stages of recovery, using low-cost wearable technology that monitors arm use and compliance with exercise regimens. By empowering patients to take an active role in their rehabilitation, the project seeks to improve their functional independence and overall quality of life.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are stroke survivors who have experienced hemiparesis and are in the early stages of recovery.

Not a fit: Patients who have severe cognitive impairments or those who are unable to participate in physical activities may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly improve the recovery outcomes and quality of life for stroke survivors by promoting greater use of their affected arm.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using technology to enhance rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients, indicating that this approach may be effective.

Where this research is happening

Milwaukee, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.