Prism adaptation therapy for stroke rehabilitation

Novel Spatial-Motor Approaches to Improve Spatial Neglect and Walking Deficits Post-Stroke

Not applicable Interventional Emory University · NCT06053320

This study is testing whether combining prism adaptation therapy with electrical stimulation can help people who have had a stroke improve their movement and spatial awareness.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment65 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorEmory University Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Atlanta, Georgia and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06053320 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of prism adaptation therapy (PAT) combined with electrical stimulation on visuospatial behavior and motor function in individuals with spatial neglect following a right hemisphere stroke. The research aims to understand how these interventions can improve walking dysfunction and the underlying neurophysiology associated with stroke recovery. Participants will include both neurologically unimpaired adults and individuals who have experienced a stroke, allowing for a comparison of outcomes. The study will assess the effectiveness of PAT alone and in combination with electrical stimulation to determine the best approach for rehabilitation.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals aged 40-90 years who have experienced a right hemisphere stroke with spatial neglect and can walk at least 10 meters.

Not a fit: Patients with orthopedic or neurological disabilities, or those with uncontrolled hypertension or other serious health conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies for stroke patients suffering from spatial neglect, enhancing their recovery and quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: While prism adaptation therapy has shown promise in treating spatial neglect, the combination with electrical stimulation is a novel approach that has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

Young Adults Able Bodied (YAB) Individuals

* 18-30 years
* Able-Bodied (healthy without any physical disability or neurological disorder)

Older Adults Able-Bodied Individuals (OAB)

* 45-90 years
* Able-Bodied (healthy without any physical disability or neurological disorder)

Individuals with right hemisphere stroke (40-90 years)

* \>3 months following stroke.
* Presence of Aiming SN
* Ability to walk \>10m with or without assistive devices.
* Unilateral left-sided hemiparesis with gross arm strength of ≤ grade 4/5 on the Medical Research Council Scale
* Ability to follow 3-stage commands and provide informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

Young Adults Able Bodied (YAB) Individuals and Older Adults Able-Bodied Individuals (OAB)

* History or evidence of orthopedic or physical disability
* History or evidence of neurological pathology
* Pregnancy (female)
* Uncontrolled hypertension
* Cardiac pacemaker or other implanted electronic system
* Presence of skin conditions preventing electrical stimulation setup
* Impaired sensation in the left upper limb.
* Bruises or cuts at the stimulation electrode placement site
* Concurrent enrollment in rehabilitation or another investigational study.
* History or evidence of orthopedic or physical disability interfering with study procedures
* History or evidence of neurological pathology or disorder
* Severe uncontrolled medical problems (e.g., hypertension, cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, active cancer or renal disease, epilepsy) that may interfere with study procedures
* Contraindications to TMS such as metal implants, medications that can increase cortical excitability, unexplained dizziness in the past 6 months

Individuals with right hemisphere stroke (40-90 years)

* History of multiple strokes or brainstem strokes
* Cerebellar disorders
* Impaired sensation in the left upper limb.
* History of other neurological disorders
* Uncontrolled hypertension
* Cardiac pacemaker or other implanted electronic system
* Pregnancy (female)
* Presence of skin condition
* Bruises at the electrode placement site
* Concurrent enrollment in rehabilitation or another investigational study
* Severe uncontrolled medical problems (e.g., hypertension, cardiovascular disease, rheumatoid arthritis, active cancer or renal disease, epilepsy) or other medical conditions that can interfere with study procedures
* Contraindications to TMS such as metal implants in the brain, medications that will increase cortical excitability, etc.

Where this trial is running

Atlanta, Georgia and 2 other locations

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 Spatial NeglectStrokePost-strokePrism Adaptation TherapyWalking
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.