Assessing muscle spasticity in stroke patients using movement analysis

Assessment of Upper Extremity Muscle Spasticity and Impedance Using the Movement and Electromyographical Analyses

Observational National Cheng-Kung University Hospital · NCT04294407

This study is testing how muscle activity and stiffness in the arms of stroke patients compare to healthy adults during hand movements to better understand muscle function after a stroke.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment100 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 65 Years
SexAll
SponsorNational Cheng-Kung University Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Tainan)
Trial IDNCT04294407 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to objectively measure muscle activity and spasticity in stroke patients and healthy adults through the use of a dynamometer and surface electromyography during hand circular motion activities. It will establish a database of upper limb muscle activity parameters and test the reliability of muscle testing methods. The study will also compare electromyographic signals and muscle strength between stroke patients and healthy individuals, exploring the relationships between these measurements and existing muscle spasm classifications.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 20 to 65 who have been clinically diagnosed with stroke and have a Mini-Mental State Examination score of 25 or higher.

Not a fit: Patients with recent shoulder, elbow, or wrist joint issues, or those with significant muscle or nerve disorders may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved assessment methods for muscle spasticity in stroke patients, enhancing rehabilitation strategies.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown success in using electromyography and movement analysis for assessing muscle spasticity, indicating that this approach is supported by existing research.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 20 to 65 years old
* with the clinical diagnosis of stroke
* Mini-mental state examination (MMSE) score ≥ 25 points

Exclusion Criteria:

* pain, subluxation or related medical history of shoulder, elbow, and wrist joints within six months
* surgery on shoulder, elbow or wrist
* with muscle or nerve disorders or diseases that significantly affect the performance of the upper extremities

Where this trial is running

Tainan

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions StrokespasticityModified Ashworth Scaleelectromyographykineticsimpedance
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.