Unilateral versus bilateral task-specific training to improve arm and hand function after stroke
Official title: Unilateral Versus Bilateral Task-specific Training on Motor Impairment, Upper Extremity Function, and Hand Dexterity in Post-Stroke Rehabilitation
Run by University of Faisalabad · NCT07523503 · Data updated 2026-11-12
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
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 40 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 32 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Faisalabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Kot Addu) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | April 5, 2026 |
| Main results expected | May 5, 2026 |
| Study ends | May 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | April 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07523503 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a 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).
✕Probably 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.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
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.
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 gone: 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.
Who can join: the full rules
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 it's running
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Hospitals
Kot Addu, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dr Izza Ayub Principal Investigator
- Email: drizzaayub@gmail.com
- Phone: (041) 8868326
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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.