Improving arm recovery after stroke using a computer interface and sleep techniques
Official title: Combining MyoCI With Memory Reactivation to Improve Motor Recovery After Stroke
Run by Northwestern University · NCT04312269 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if combining computer training with sleep techniques can help stroke survivors improve their arm movement and recovery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 21 Years to 100 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | Northwestern University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 25, 2020 |
| Main results expected | January 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | January 30, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | May 27, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04312269 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older who have hemiparesis from their first stroke and exhibit moderate to severe motor impairment.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe visual impairments, significant cognitive challenges, or those who have recently participated in other studies may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study examines the effectiveness of combining myoelectric computer interface (MyoCI) training with targeted memory reactivation (TMR) in chronic stroke survivors. The goal is to determine if this innovative approach can enhance arm motor function over an extended training period. Participants will engage in training sessions that incorporate sleep-based memory techniques to potentially improve their recovery outcomes. The study focuses on individuals who have experienced a stroke and have varying degrees of motor impairment.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance motor recovery in stroke survivors, leading to improved arm function and quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: While the combination of MyoCI and TMR is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing motor recovery through targeted interventions.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age at enrollment is 21 or older * Hemiparesis from first ever stroke affecting arm movement at least 6 months prior to screening * Severe to moderate motor impairment (FMA-UE of 7-40) * At least some voluntary shoulder and elbow muscle activation Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to follow instructions of the MyoCI task * Visual impairment (such as hemianopia) preventing full view of screen * Anesthesia or neglect in the affected arm, or visual hemineglect (score of 2 on the NIH Stroke Scale Extinction and Inattention subtest) * Participation in another study on the affected arm within 6 weeks of enrollment or any pharmacological study * Inability to understand or follow commands in English due to aphasia or other reason * Diffuse or multifocal infarcts in both hemispheres * Substantial arm pain preventing participation for 90 minutes a day * Spasticity treatment (pharmacological or Botox) within last 3 months * Ferromagnetic implants that are MRI incompatible
Where it's running
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Northwestern University
Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Marc W Slutzky, MD/PhD — Northwestern University
- Study coordinator: Marc W Slutzky, MD/PhD
- Email: mslutzky@northwestern.edu
- Phone: 312-503-4653
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Deep phenotyping to explore recovery in young adults after stroke
This project will test whether a detailed health and sample-collection approach (deep phenotyping) is practical and acceptable for people aged 18–55 who have had a stroke.
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Stem cell therapy for chronic stroke recovery
This study is testing whether using a patient's own stem cells can help people with long-term stroke recovery feel better and improve their daily functioning.
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AI-based tools to help diagnose, treat and predict stroke outcomes across multiple hospitals
This study tests AI-powered tools on real-world stroke patients to see if they can improve pre-hospital triage, diagnosis, and outcome prediction while data stay securely within each hospital.
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Web-based therapy using action observation and mirror therapy for arm weakness after stroke
This trial tests whether a mobile telerehabilitation app delivering action observation therapy (AOT) alone or combined AOT with mirror therapy (AOT-MT) can improve upper limb function in people with subacute stroke.
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Remote Ischaemic Conditioning for Fatigue After Stroke 2
Aat least 12 weeks after stroke, adults with post-stroke fatigue will try a simple hand-arm cuff treatment at home to see if it helps reduce fatigue.
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Dual-task balance training plus computer-based cognitive training after stroke
In adults who recently had a stroke, the study tests whether adding computerized cognitive exercises to balance training improves balance and other recovery outcomes.
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.