Improving sitting and arm function in children with bilateral cerebral palsy using a robotic trainer.
Improving seated postural control and upper extremity function in bilateral CP with a robotic Trunk-Support-Trainer (TruST)
This study is all about helping kids with moderate to severe cerebral palsy learn to sit up on their own and use their arms better by playing with a fun robot called the Trunk-Support-Trainer, which makes practicing these important skills easier and more enjoyable.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Columbia Univ New York Morningside NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (New York, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10911992 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research focuses on helping children with moderate to severe bilateral cerebral palsy improve their ability to sit independently and enhance their upper body function. Using a specially designed robotic device called the Trunk-Support-Trainer (TruST), the study aims to provide targeted training that encourages motor learning through play. The TruST creates a supportive environment that helps children practice sitting and upper extremity movements, which are crucial for their daily activities and overall independence. The approach is based on principles of motor learning, ensuring that children can progress in their skills effectively.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are children aged 0-11 years with moderate to severe bilateral cerebral palsy who struggle with sitting and upper extremity function.
Not a fit: Patients with mild unilateral cerebral palsy or those without significant postural control deficits may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance the functional independence and quality of life for children with bilateral cerebral palsy.
How similar studies have performed: While there has been progress in upper extremity treatments for unilateral cerebral palsy, this approach using robotics for bilateral cerebral palsy is relatively novel and has limited prior evidence.
Where this research is happening
New York, United States
- Columbia Univ New York Morningside — New York, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Agrawal, Sunil K. — Columbia Univ New York Morningside
- Study coordinator: Agrawal, Sunil K.
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 below.