Improving arm function for patients with systemic sclerosis using telerehabilitation
Official title: Planning for a Multisite Efficacy Trial of Upper Extremity Telerehabilitation for Systemic Sclerosis
Funded at University of Michigan at Ann Arbor · NIH-11038025 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether online therapy can help people with systemic sclerosis improve the use of their arms and hands, making it easier for them to get the help they need without having to travel.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Michigan at Ann Arbor NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Ann Arbor, United States) |
| Project start | February 16, 2024 |
| Project end | January 31, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2025 |
| Award (this year) | $99,871 |
| NIH project number | 5R34AR082551-02 |
| Project ID | NIH-11038025 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with systemic sclerosis who experience upper extremity limitations.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who do not have systemic sclerosis or those with severe cognitive impairments that prevent them from participating in telerehabilitation may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research aims to develop a multisite clinical trial to evaluate the effectiveness of telerehabilitation for improving upper extremity function in patients with systemic sclerosis (SSc). The approach addresses the challenges patients face in accessing traditional rehabilitation services, which can be limited by travel and availability. By utilizing telerehabilitation, patients can receive therapy remotely, making it more accessible and potentially more effective. The study builds on previous pilot work to create a standardized treatment protocol that can be implemented across various sites.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the ability of patients with systemic sclerosis to regain and maintain upper extremity function, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research has shown promising results for telerehabilitation in other chronic conditions, indicating potential for success in this novel application for systemic sclerosis.
Where this research is happening
-
University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
Ann Arbor, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Murphy, Susan L. — University of Michigan at Ann Arbor
- Study coordinator: Murphy, Susan L.
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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.