Music intervention for improving arm function after stroke

The Neural Mechanisms of Music Intervention for Chronic Arm Hemiparesis Following Stroke: A Single Case Series EEG Study

Not applicable Interventional Anglia Ruskin University · NCT06223529

This study is testing whether a three-week music therapy program can help improve arm movement in people who have had a stroke.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment5 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 110 Years
SexAll
SponsorAnglia Ruskin University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Bedford, Bedfordshire)
Trial IDNCT06223529 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to recruit five participants with upper limb hemiparesis following a stroke to evaluate the effects of a three-week music intervention on neural reorganization and arm function. Participants will receive 15 home-based music therapy sessions delivered by trained clinicians, utilizing instruments like untuned percussion and an iPad to facilitate movement. The study will assess changes in arm function and neuroplasticity using electroencephalogram (EEG) measures before and after the intervention. The primary focus is on understanding the neuroplastic changes induced by Therapeutic Instrumental Music Performance (TIMP).

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18 and older who have experienced an ischemic stroke and have some movement ability in their affected arm.

Not a fit: Patients with hemorrhagic strokes or those who have no movement in their arm will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could enhance arm function and promote neural recovery in stroke patients.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach of using music therapy for stroke rehabilitation is gaining interest, this specific study's focus on EEG measures and neuroplasticity is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

1. Aged 18+
2. Ischemic stroke
3. Three weeks to 60 months post-stroke
4. 12 to 49/57 Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) score \*
5. Able to follow instructions and consent
6. Right-hand dominant

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Hemorrhagic stroke
2. No movement in arm
3. Unable to move thumb and one finger. Loss of sensation and proprioceptive impairment will not lead to exclusion.
4. Unable to consent to participate
5. Currently receiving music therapy
6. Left-hand dominant
7. Ambidextrous
8. Not registered with a GP. We will require GP details to inform them in case of any incidental findings in the EEG.

Where this trial is running

Bedford, Bedfordshire

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.
Conditions StrokeHemiparesisHome-basedNeurologic Music Therapyelectroencephalography
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.