Examining joint motion problems in stroke patients and healthy volunteers

Characterization of Somatic Dysfunction in Patients With Acute Cerebrovascular Disease

Observational University of California, Davis · NCT06605014

This study is testing a physical exam method to see how well it can spot joint motion problems in stroke patients compared to healthy people.

Quick facts

Study typeObservational
Enrollment120 (estimated)
Ages18 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of California, Davis Academic / other
Locations1 site (Sacramento, California)
Trial IDNCT06605014 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This observational study aims to evaluate the reliability of a standardized physical examination method for identifying motion problems in joints among adults, including those hospitalized with stroke or transient ischemic attack (TIA). The study will assess whether different healthcare providers can consistently quantify motion pattern issues using the Functional Pathology of the Musculoskeletal System (FPMSS) model. It will also explore differences in joint motion patterns between asymptomatic individuals and those with stroke or TIA, as well as the relationship between joint motion impairment severity and outcomes for stroke survivors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include adults aged 18 and older who have experienced an ischemic stroke or TIA and are neurologically stable.

Not a fit: Patients with acute skeletal fractures or significant prior neurological events may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance the understanding of joint dysfunction in stroke patients, potentially leading to improved rehabilitation strategies.

How similar studies have performed: While this approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in understanding the relationship between musculoskeletal issues and neurological conditions.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* adults ≥18 years

Admission diagnosis:

* ischemic stroke OR
* transient ischemic attack (TIA). A prior history of TIA but without stroke may be enrolled.
* Neurologic stability or lack of significant deterioration (i.e. ∆ NIHSS\<4) for at least 24 hours (defined by clinical documentation and/or communication with provider team(s)) in stroke subjects
* Able to sit upright, lie supine, and when able lateral recumbent left/right positions with assist independently or with minimal person assist
* Anticipated length of stay greater \> or = 2 days for ischemic stroke. TIA patients average length of stay is \< 2 days, and can be enrolled in the study.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Acute skeletal fracture or known dislocation; history of pathologic (osteoporotic or neoplastic) skeletal fracture of thoracic cage, hip/pelvis/sacrum, or vertebral column
* Prior history of ICH, ischemic stroke, confirmed by imaging and/or clinical evaluation. Patients with imaging showing "chronic stroke" who have never received a diagnosis of stroke and/or have not been previously symptomatic may still be enrolled, based on the Investigator's clinical judgement.
* Spinal column support brace (e.g. cervical collar)
* Anticipated neurosurgical intervention during hospitalization: decompressive hemicraniectomy, hematoma evacuation (defined by clinical documentation and/or communication with provider team(s))
* Current endotracheal intubation (\*note: extubated patients can be evaluated for eligibility)
* History of spinal cord injury with residual neuromuscular or sensory disability
* History of recent trauma within the past 30 days
* Known ligament, musculotendinous, or bone lesion
* Clinical condition that would interfere with execution of movement or palpatory diagnostic testing, e.g. chronic pain
* History of spinal surgery

Where this trial is running

Sacramento, California

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.
Conditions Stroke, AcuteTIAReproducibility of ResultsOsteopathic ManipulationHealth-Related Quality-of-Life
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.