Using a haptic device to help people with reduced foot sensation
Multimodal Haptic Feedback for Plantar Sensory Substitution
This study is testing a special device that helps people with reduced foot feeling due to movement disorders by using vibrations and heat to see if it can improve their balance and walking.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 100 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Chicago, Illinois) |
| Trial ID | NCT06232512 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study explores the effectiveness of a haptic device designed for sensory substitution in individuals suffering from hypoesthesia due to movement disorders. The device includes a flexible insole with pressure sensors that relay foot pressure patterns to a haptic receiver, which provides vibrational and thermal feedback. The study aims to determine if users can perceive this feedback to correct their posture in real-time, maintain proper pressure patterns while standing and walking, and improve performance on motor evaluation tasks.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who can walk at least 10 meters with or without assistance and are willing to comply with study procedures.
Not a fit: Patients who cannot perceive unsafe levels of heat or have conditions like complete spinal cord injury or transfemoral amputation may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance the mobility and quality of life for patients with reduced plantar sensation.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of haptic feedback for sensory substitution is a novel approach, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing sensory perception and motor function.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Able to ambulate 10 meters with or without assistance * Able and willing to give written consent and comply with study procedures Exclusion Criteria: * Unable to give written consent or comply with study procedures * Unable to perceive unsafe levels of heat in relevant areas * Has a motor complete spinal cord injury * Have transfemoral (above knee) amputation * Any condition that would prevent the safe completion of study activities, as determined by the Principal Investigator
Where this trial is running
Chicago, Illinois
- Shirley Ryan AbilityLab — Chicago, Illinois, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Arun Jayaraman, PT, PhD — Shirley Ryan AbilityLab
- Study coordinator: Shreya Aalla, BS
- Email: saalla@sralab.org
- Phone: 312-238-7323
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.