Game-based training to improve arm function after stroke
EMG-Controlled Game to Retrain Upper Extremity Muscle Activation Patterns Following Stroke
NA · VA Office of Research and Development · NCT05628324
This study is testing if a fun gaming approach can help people who have had a stroke improve their arm function through practice and muscle training.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 62 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development (fed) |
| Locations | 1 site (Charleston, South Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT05628324 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to evaluate whether upper limb task practice and muscle activity training can enhance upper limb function in individuals who have experienced a stroke. Participants will attend the laboratory 23 times over a period of 2.5 months, engaging in activities designed to retrain muscle activation patterns and improve functional abilities. The intervention includes both practice of specific tasks and assessments of upper extremity function, utilizing an EMG-controlled gaming approach to facilitate rehabilitation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who have experienced a stroke more than six months prior and have moderate unilateral upper limb impairment.
Not a fit: Patients currently undergoing upper limb rehabilitation or those with severe sensory loss or other comorbidities affecting upper limb movement may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve arm function and quality of life for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using task practice and EMG feedback for rehabilitation, suggesting potential for success in this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18+ years old * Stroke more than 6 months ago * Moderate unilateral upper limb impairment * Cognitive ability to participate in the study procedure * Ability to see the full computer screen Exclusion Criteria: * Concurrent upper limb rehabilitation * Inability to voluntarily contract muscles of at least 2 upper limb muscle groups, prohibiting participation in training * Change in spasticity medication or botulinum toxin injection in the upper limb within 3 months prior to or during enrollment * Total sensory loss * Comorbidity (e.g., orthopaedic or premorbid neurologic condition) that limit upper limb movement and/or participation in the intervention * Language barrier or cognitive impairment that precludes providing consent
Where this trial is running
Charleston, South Carolina
- Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC — Charleston, South Carolina, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Na Jin Seo, PhD MS BS — Ralph H. Johnson VA Medical Center, Charleston, SC
- Study coordinator: Sarah A Jackson, BA MA
- Email: sarah.jackson@va.gov
- Phone: (843) 789-6700
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Stroke, upper limb, rehabilitation, EMG muscle activation pattern, serious game, virtual reality, biofeedback