Improving arm recovery after stroke using a computer interface and sleep techniques

Combining MyoCI With Memory Reactivation to Improve Motor Recovery After Stroke

NA · Northwestern University · NCT04312269

This study is testing if combining computer training with sleep techniques can help stroke survivors improve their arm movement and recovery.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment70 (estimated)
Ages21 Years to 100 Years
SexAll
SponsorNorthwestern University (other)
Locations1 site (Chicago, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT04312269 on ClinicalTrials.gov

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.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 and older who have hemiparesis from their first stroke and exhibit moderate to severe motor impairment.

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.

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 performed: While the combination of MyoCI and TMR is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing motor recovery through targeted interventions.

Eligibility criteria

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 this trial is running

Chicago, Illinois

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Stroke, Sleep

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.