Home-based functional electrical stimulation training for chronic stroke patients

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This project investigates the feasibility, safety, and effects of home-based functional electrical stimulation (FES) combined with task-specific training on gait, balance, and mobility in adults with chronic stroke. Participants will first undergo assessments in a laboratory to determine eligibility, followed by a 12-week program that includes initial training sessions and home-based training with an FES device. The study aims to improve walking and reduce fall risk by addressing muscle weakness and impaired motor control associated with chronic stroke.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age group: 18-90 years.
2. Presence of unilateral hemiparesis.
3. Onset of stroke (\> 6 months).
4. Ability to walk independently with or without an assistive device for at least 300 ft.
5. Can understand and communicate in English and can verbalize discomfort or pain in English
6. Use of smartphone on a daily basis
7. Availability of internet/Wi-Fi at home

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Body weight more than 250 lbs.
2. Heel bone density measurement using an ultrasound device. Individuals classified as osteoporotic (i.e., with a T-score \< -2) will be excluded.
3. Cognitive impairment (Montreal Cognitive assessment score \<26/30)
4. Verbal Aphasia (i.e \<71% score on Mississippi Aphasia Screening)
5. Severe depression (\> 15 points on geriatric depression scale)
6. Any neurological condition other than stroke.
7. Uncontrolled and/or untreated hypertension/hypotension, uncontrolled and/or untreated diabetes and any musculoskeletal, neuromuscular or systemic diagnosis .
8. Recent major surgery (\< 6 months) or hospitalization (\< 3 months).
9. Deep venous thrombosis.
10. Past or current history of any type of active cancer
11. Peripheral nerve injury or neuropathy in the affected limb with motor disability.
12. Uncontrolled high blood pressure/angina.
13. Skin condition not tolerant with FES therapy.
14. Past or current history of uncontrolled/controlled epilepsy or any other types of seizure disorders
15. Botox treatment within the last 5 months.
16. Pacemaker users.

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Where it's running

• University of Illinois at Chicago
  Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Tanvi Bhatt, PhD — University of Illinois Chicago
• Study coordinator: Rudri Purohit, MS
• Email: rpuroh2@uic.edu
• Phone: 312-413-9772

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.