Home-based hand rehab for people after stroke

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 single-center pilot randomized trial compares two home-based hand rehabilitation strategies for adults with chronic stroke: a technology-supported telerehabilitation program delivered remotely and a standard home exercise program matched for duration and intensity. Feasibility, adherence, and preliminary effects on hand function will be assessed before-and-after the intervention. The study aims to determine whether remote supervision and technology-assisted activities can improve access to structured hand therapy and potential outcomes in hand function. Participants will complete supervised home training sessions via video conferencing or follow a home-exercise plan, with outcomes including standardized hand-function measures and feasibility indicators. The design focuses on adults with chronic unilateral stroke and minimal cognitive impairment, with safety monitoring and endpoint assessments aligned to routine clinical practice.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Unilateral cortical or subcortical stroke
* Chronic stroke (≥ 6 months since stroke)
* No significant cognitive deficits as determined by the Mini Mental State Examination (MMSE) score (score≥ 22)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Cerebellar stroke
* Unstable heart condition, uncontrolled diabetes or hypertension
* Recent trauma or fracture in the upper extremities
* History of significant orthopedic or neurological conditions that could affect hand function (e.g., multiple sclerosis)
* Recent history of significant spatial neglect
* Joint contractures or significant spasticity in the hand
* History of a recent Botulinum Toxin (Botox) injection to the upper-extremity muscles (≤ 3 months)
* Pregnant or actively planning to become pregnant (self-reported)
* Inability to communicate or unable to consent

Exclusion Criteria for subjects exposed to Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS):

* Unable to obtain reliable motor evoked potentials
* Recent history of repeated fainting spells or syncope.
* Recent history of seizure while on anti-seizure medication
* Recent history of skull fracture/head injury
* Ferromagnetic metal implants in the skull
* Cochlear implant
* Implanted deep brain stimulator
* Implanted vagus nerve stimulator
* Implanted cervical spine epidural stimulator
* Ventriculoperitoneal shunt
* Skull defect related to the current stroke
* Previous serious adverse reaction to TMS
* Implanted electronic cardiac device (e.g., cardiac pacemaker)

Where it's running

• Physical Medicine & Rehabilitation 325 E Eisenhower Pkwy Suite 3011
  Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Thomas E Augenstein, MSE, PhD — University of Michigan
• Study coordinator: Thomas E Augenstein, MSE, PhD
• Email: tomaugen@umich.edu
• Phone: 734-232-5147

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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• Dual-task balance training plus computer-based cognitive training after stroke

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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.