Effects of specific exercises on upper limb function in stroke patients

Comparative Effects of Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation Strengthening Exercises and De-lorme and Watkins Exercises Program on Upper Limb Function and Strength in Chronic Stroke Patients

NA · Riphah International University · NCT05904795

This study is testing whether two different types of exercises can help stroke patients improve their arm strength and function better than standard therapy alone.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment20 (estimated)
Ages50 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University (other)
Locations1 site (Lodhran, Punjab)
Trial IDNCT05904795 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the impact of proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation (PNF) strengthening exercises and de-Lorme and Watkins exercises on upper extremity function and strength in chronic stroke patients. Participants will be randomly assigned to two groups: one receiving PNF exercises and the other receiving de-Lorme and Watkins exercises, alongside conventional therapy. The treatment protocol spans six weeks, with assessments conducted at the start, third week, and sixth week to measure improvements in upper limb function, activities of daily living, and mental status. The study aims to determine which exercise technique is more effective for enhancing upper limb strength in this patient population.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include chronic stroke patients who are medically stable and have experienced a single stroke within the last 6 to 24 months.

Not a fit: Patients with recurrent strokes, certain neurological conditions, or severe muscle weakness may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could significantly improve upper limb function and quality of life for stroke patients with upper extremity paresis.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown limited literature on the combined effects of these exercise techniques, indicating that this approach may be novel and untested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Chronic stroke patients.
* Medically stable patients having a single stroke.
* History of stroke 6 to 24 months.
* A score greater than 24-30 in mini-mental test.
* Patients having consciousness with GC;10

Exclusion Criteria:

* Recurrent stroke
* Patients with gullian berrie syndrome, multiple sclerosis lesion osteoarthritis of shoulder.
* Manual muscle testing below grade II.

Where this trial is running

Lodhran, Punjab

Study contacts

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.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Upper Extremity Paresis, Proprioceptive neuromuscular facilitation

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 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.