Unilateral versus bilateral task-specific training to improve arm and hand function after stroke
Unilateral Versus Bilateral Task-specific Training on Motor Impairment, Upper Extremity Function, and Hand Dexterity in Post-Stroke Rehabilitation
NA · University of Faisalabad · NCT07523503
This trial will test whether one-armed (unilateral) or two-armed (bilateral) task-based training, each combined with baseline electrical stimulation, helps people 6–24 months after stroke improve upper limb movement and hand dexterity.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Faisalabad (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Kot Addu) |
| Trial ID | NCT07523503 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This randomized clinical trial will enroll 32 medically stable adults 40–75 years old who are 6–24 months post-stroke and have some antigravity shoulder movement and adequate cognition. Participants will be randomly assigned to four weeks of structured unilateral task-oriented training (UTOT) or bilateral task-oriented training (BTOT), both with baseline electrical muscle stimulation. Standardized outcome measures of motor impairment, upper extremity function, and hand dexterity will be recorded before and after the intervention. The trial aims to compare the relative effectiveness of the two approaches for improving upper limb recovery.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Medically stable adults aged 40–75 years, 6–24 months after a clinically diagnosed stroke, with some active shoulder movement on the affected side and intact cognition (Abbreviated Mental Test score ≥7).
Not a fit: People with uncontrolled systemic conditions, major orthopedic problems of the involved limb, severe joint contractures, severe language or receptive aphasia, hearing deficits, or electrode allergy are unlikely to benefit or be eligible for this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the results could identify which training approach leads to better or faster recovery of arm strength and hand function, helping clinicians tailor rehabilitation plans.
How similar studies have performed: Prior rehabilitation studies of unilateral and bilateral training have shown mixed but promising results, with some trials favoring intensive unilateral practice and others reporting benefits from bilateral approaches, so this comparison adds needed data rather than being entirely novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * • Age between 40 and 75 years * Clinically diagnosed stroke (no more than three lifetime episodes) * Stroke duration between 6 to 24 months * Ability to perform antigravity shoulder movement with the paretic limb * Abbreviated Mental Test score ≥ 7 * Medically stable and capable of giving consent Exclusion Criteria: * • Uncontrolled systemic conditions (e.g. Unstable cardiac conditions) * Major orthopedic issues affecting the involved upper limb * Hearing deficits * Allergy to electrodes * Receptive aphasia or severe language impairment * Severe joint contracture limiting required upper limb movements
Where this trial is running
Kot Addu
- Hospitals — Kot Addu, Pakistan (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dr Izza Ayub Principal Investigator
- Email: drizzaayub@gmail.com
- Phone: (041) 8868326
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.
Conditions: Stroke