TASSRET: Self-guided task-specific rehabilitation for Hausa-speaking stroke survivors
Study Protocol for a Pilot Randomized Controlled Trial of Task-Specific Self-Rehabilitation Training (TASSRET) for Improving Functional Mobility in Community-Dwelling Stroke Survivors in a Low-Resource Setting
This trial tests whether a self-guided, task-specific rehab program delivered by video or by a printed manual can help Hausa-speaking adults after a first stroke improve arm movement, walking, balance, and quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | National Assembly Clinic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kano) |
| Trial ID | NCT07208422 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This is a pilot randomized controlled trial comparing two formats of a Task-specific Self-rehabilitation Training (TASSRET) program — video-based versus manual-based — delivered to Hausa-native, community-dwelling stroke survivors with limited access to physiotherapy. Participants who meet motor and cognitive eligibility criteria will be randomized to use either the Android-video program or a printed manual and followed to measure immediate and durable changes in upper-extremity fine and gross motor skills, manual dexterity and speed, voluntary movement and basic mobility, gait velocity, balance, and health-related quality of life. The intervention emphasizes task-specific exercises designed for self-administration in low-resource settings and leverages accessible technology (Android phones) or low-cost printed materials. Outcome measures will compare functional gains over specified follow-up periods to determine which delivery format is more effective and sustainable.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are Hausa-speaking adults (≥18 years) with a first ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke who live in the selected communities, have minimal hand movement (≥10° index finger extension and thumb abduction), can follow simple commands or score ≥24 on MMSE, are able to stand and take a step (with or without support), are not currently receiving physiotherapy, and have access to an Android phone.
Not a fit: Patients unlikely to benefit include those with recurrent strokes or other neurological disorders, severe cognitive impairment or inability to follow commands, those without basic hand movement or ambulatory ability, those already receiving rehabilitation, or those without access to an Android phone in the target communities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the program could provide an affordable, scalable way for stroke survivors in low-resource communities to regain arm and walking function and improve everyday independence.
How similar studies have performed: Systematic reviews and trials suggest exercise-based and task-specific training can improve post-stroke function and quality of life, but direct comparisons of video versus manual self-rehabilitation formats in LMICs and among Hausa speakers are limited.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Are aged 18 years or older * Diagnosed with a first-ever episode of ischemic or haemorrhagic stroke (including intracerebral haemorrhage and subarachnoid haemorrhage) * Speaks and understands the Hausa language * Living within the community and having no access to physiotherapy care * Having access to an Android phone * More than 10-degree extension of the index finger and abduction of the thumb * Cognitive ability to follow commands, as indicated by a score of 0 to 1 on the Commands item of the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale or a Mini-Mental State Examination score of ≥24 * Ability to stand and take a step (with or without support). Exclusion Criteria: * Had cerebrovascular events due to malignancy or head trauma * Had been diagnosed with other neurological disorders * Were not permanent residents of the selected communities * Were currently receiving any form of physical rehabilitation.
Where this trial is running
Kano
- Kura, Karfi and Dan-Hassan communities — Kano, Nigeria (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Rabiu Ibrahim, MSc — National Assembly Clinic
- Study coordinator: Rabiu Ibrahim, MSc
- Email: tok2rabs@gmail.com
- Phone: +2348034578911
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.