Passive robots and electrical stimulation to help arm recovery after stroke
Passive Robots for Stroke Rehabilitation
This study tests whether combining a low-cost passive robotic device (SepaRRo) with noninvasive neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NeuRRoFES) can help stroke survivors improve upper‑limb movement during long-term, home‑friendly training.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 4 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Michigan Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ann Arbor, Michigan) |
| Trial ID | NCT07218276 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Many stroke survivors have lasting upper‑extremity weaknesses but high‑end robotic rehab is often too expensive or bulky for routine or home use. This study uses a table‑top semi‑passive device called SepaRRo together with a custom controller that triggers neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NeuRRoFES) during functional tasks. Participants will undergo long‑term training with these tools while researchers measure technical feasibility (adherence, time on task, retention, ability to perform tasks, and user feedback) and clinical signals of change (biomechanical, neurophysiological, and functional measures). The goal is to determine whether this affordable, compliant system could be practical for wider clinical or home rehabilitation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults 18–75 with a single ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke, preserved sensation/proprioception and some usable movement in the affected arm who can participate in in‑person visits are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: Patients with bilateral stroke, complete arm paralysis, severe spasticity or contractures, major cognitive impairment, uncontrolled medical conditions, or contraindications to neuromodulation are unlikely to benefit or be eligible.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could provide a lower‑cost, home‑capable option to improve arm movement and daily function for many stroke survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Powered robotic therapy and functional electrical stimulation have shown benefits for upper‑limb recovery after stroke, but combining low‑cost, non‑motorized passive devices with triggered stimulation is relatively novel and less well tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18 to 75 years; * Ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke confirmed by CT, MRI, or clinical criteria; * No major deficits of sensation or proprioception; Exclusion Criteria: * Bilateral stroke * Unable to think clearly and remember (Mini-Mental State Exam score \< 22 and miniMOCA \< 8); * Uncontrolled Diabetes or Hypertension; * Severe limitations of joint range of motion that will lead to inability of testing * Severe spasticity and joint contractures that will lead to inability of testing * Complete paresis with no possible movements * Severe aphasia * Any other medical condition that will significantly impact the study results * Unable to obtain reliable motor evoked potentials * Are pregnant or are actively trying to conceive * Have a recent history of repeated fainting spells or syncope. * Have a recent history of seizure (epilepsy) while on anti-seizure medication * Have a recent history of skull fracture/head injury * Have metal implants in the skull * Have cardiac pacemakers
Where this trial is running
Ann Arbor, Michigan
- University of Michigan - NeuRRo Lab — Ann Arbor, Michigan, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Chandramouli Krishnan, PT, PhD — University of Michigan
- Study coordinator: Chandramouli Krishnan, PT, PhD
- Email: mouli@umich.edu
- Phone: 7349364031
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.