Training finger movements to improve hand function after stroke
A Multimodal Intervention to Improve Manual Dexterity in Subacute Stroke Survivors
This study is testing a new way to help stroke survivors improve their hand movements by using a special device and electrical stimulation over a 5-week training program.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | North Carolina State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Raleigh, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT05621980 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates a new intervention combining targeted electrical stimulation of nerves with a soft, pneumatically actuated hand exoskeleton to enhance the rehabilitation of hand function in stroke survivors. Participants, who are in the subacute phase of recovery, will engage in a 5-week program consisting of 15 training sessions focused on independent finger movements. The effectiveness of this intervention will be assessed through evaluations of motor control before, during, and after the training period. The goal is to improve fine manual control that is often lost after a stroke.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are stroke survivors who experienced a single, unilateral stroke 2-18 months prior and have moderate to mild hand impairment.
Not a fit: Patients with rigid contractures, orthopedic issues, hemispatial neglect, or excessive pain in the paretic upper limb may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance hand function and independence for stroke survivors.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using similar approaches for stroke rehabilitation, indicating potential for success.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * A single, unilateral stroke 2-18 months prior to enrollment * Moderate to mild hand impairment, as determined by a rating of Stage 4-6 on the Stage of Hand section of the Chedoke-McMaster Stroke Assessment * Visual capacity to discern specific shapes on the computer screen * Capacity to provide informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Rigid contractures in the joints of the upper limbs, or orthopedic issues precluding joint movement * Hemispatial neglect (as assessed by the Behavioral Inattention Test) * Excessive pain in the paretic upper limb (visual analog scale of shoulder pain \< 70)
Where this trial is running
Raleigh, North Carolina
- Hand Rehabilitation Lab — Raleigh, North Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Derek G Kamper, PhD
- Email: dgkamper@ncsu.edu
- Phone: 7735201233
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.