Using a hand exoskeleton to help stroke patients regain hand function

Home Training for Upper Limb Stroke Rehabilitation Using a Hand Exoskeleton

NA · Medstar Health Research Institute · NCT06786858

This study tests if a special hand device can help stroke patients get better use of their hands again by using it both in clinics and at home.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment15 (estimated)
Ages21 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorMedstar Health Research Institute (other)
Locations1 site (Washington D.C., District of Columbia)
Trial IDNCT06786858 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of the HandMATE device in rehabilitating stroke patients by assessing its impact on their ability to regain functional use of their hands. Participants will use the device both in clinical settings and at home, allowing for increased therapy intensity and reduced treatment costs. Clinical upper extremity assessments will be conducted to measure progress and the overall reception of the device among stroke survivors.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 or older who have experienced a stroke more than 6 months prior and have some voluntary hand activity.

Not a fit: Patients with severe sensory loss, hemispatial neglect, or those currently receiving antispasticity medications may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this could significantly enhance the rehabilitation process for stroke patients, leading to improved hand function and greater independence.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using robotic devices for stroke rehabilitation, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age of 21 or older
* diagnosis of stroke more than 6 months prior confirmed from MRI or CT
* voluntary hand activity (score of 1 or more, finger extension item, Fugl-Meyer Test)
* adequate cognitive status
* Impaired ability to open affected hand

Exclusion Criteria:

* hemispatial neglect
* severe sensory loss (2 or more on the sensory item, NIH Stroke Scale/Score)
* receiving or planning to receive antispasticity medications during enrollment into the study
* less than full passive range of motion in finger joints
* receiving physical or occupational therapy outside of study protocols
* have excessive pain in any joint of the affected extremity that could limit ability to cooperate with the protocols

Where this trial is running

Washington D.C., District of Columbia

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Stroke

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.