Robot-assisted rehabilitation for stroke recovery
Official title: Robot-Aided Diagnosis, Passive-Active Arm Motor and Sensory Rehabilitation Post Stroke: Aims 2&3
Run by University of Maryland, Baltimore · NCT02359253 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing whether using robots for therapy can help stroke patients recover better use of their arms and hands compared to traditional methods.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 72 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Maryland, Baltimore Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Baltimore, Maryland) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | October 14, 2018 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 1, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT02359253 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals who have experienced a first focal unilateral stroke within the past 1-12 months and have specific levels of impairment in their arm and hand.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with severe pain, contractures, or cognitive impairments, as well as those currently involved in other rehabilitation 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 evaluates the effectiveness of robotic therapy in improving upper extremity function in stroke patients. It focuses on multi-joint neuromechanical impairments and compares the benefits of training the arm versus the hand. Additionally, it investigates the impact of combining passive stretching with active movement training using specialized robotic devices. Participants will be randomly assigned to different treatment groups to assess the most effective rehabilitation approach.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance recovery outcomes for stroke patients with upper extremity impairments.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using robotic therapy for stroke rehabilitation, indicating potential success for this approach.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * First focal unilateral lesion, ischemic or hemorrhagic * Had a stroke 1-12 months prior to enrollment * Rated between stages 2-4 on the Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment Impairment Inventory: Stage of Recovery of the Arm and Hand Exclusion Criteria: * Apraxia * Score of less than 22 on the Mini Mental Status Exam * Severe pain in the shoulder by a self-rating of 7 out of 10 or greater * Severe contracture in the upper extremity * Unable to sit in a chair for 3 consecutive hours * Unrelated musculoskeletal injuries * Poor fit into equipment used in study * Botox injection in upper extremity within 4 months * Concurrent participation in gait or upper extremity intervention studies
Where it's running
-
University of Maryland, Baltimore
Baltimore, Maryland, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Li-Qun Zhang, Ph.D. — University of Maryland, Baltimore
- Study coordinator: Soh-Hyun Hur
- Email: sohur@som.umaryland.edu
- Phone: (410) 706-1625
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.
-
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.