Gaze-Driven Neck Exoskeleton to Help Head-Neck Movements in ALS
Official title: Using Gaze to Enable Personalized Head-neck Movements Through a Powered Neck Exoskeleton
Run by University of Utah · NCT07836751 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests a powered neck exoskeleton with gaze-based controls to see if it helps people with ALS who have head drop.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 12 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Utah Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Salt Lake City, Utah) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | June 30, 2025 |
| Main results expected | October 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 1, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | September 23, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07836751 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults with neck weakness due to ALS or related neuromuscular disorders who can consent and safely use the device.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with significant cognitive or visual impairments or poor device fit may not benefit from this approach.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Researchers will develop and test controllers for a neck exoskeleton designed to assist head-neck movements in people with ALS. The study uses a small feasibility format to explore personalization, comfort, and user satisfaction during tasks that resemble daily activities. Participants from the University of Utah ALS clinic will perform computerized tracking tasks and simulated daily activities while wearing the device, with breaks to reduce fatigue. Measurements will include head-neck motion, gaze data, controller preferences, and survey feedback. The goal is to determine if gaze-driven control can provide usable support and inform future improvements.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could improve head-control and daily function for people with ALS who experience head drop.
How similar studies have gone: Similar gaze- or controller-based approaches have shown feasibility in related assistive devices, though this specific neck exoskeleton test is novel in ALS.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * neck weakness and age over 18 Exclusion Criteria: * Any cognitive deficits or visual impairments that would prevent from safely using the device and completing the tasks and poor device fitting.
Where it's running
-
Utah Wearable Robotics Laboratory, Dept. of Mechanical Engineering
Salt Lake City, Utah, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Research Coordinator
- Email: uwrl@UofUtah.onmicrosoft.com
- Phone: 801-585-2536
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.