Using a robotic exoskeleton to help stroke survivors with arm rehabilitation
Developing and Determining Feasibility of a Novel Upper Extremity Robotic Exoskeleton to Track and Target Unwanted Joint Synergies During Repetitive Task Training in Stroke Survivors
This study is testing a new robotic exoskeleton to see if it can help stroke survivors improve their arm movement and recovery during therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 7 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | VA Office of Research and Development Federal |
| Locations | 1 site (Seattle, Washington) |
| Trial ID | NCT05962697 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to improve rehabilitation for stroke survivors by utilizing a newly developed robotic exoskeleton called Harmony, which facilitates bimanual 3D arm therapy. The approach involves two novel controllers designed to avoid unwanted joint synergies and assist with task performance during repetitive training. By focusing on patients in the acute and sub-acute stages of recovery, the study seeks to enhance upper extremity function and overall quality of life for Veterans. The robotic system aims to make repetitive task training more effective and less draining for both patients and clinicians.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults over 18 who have suffered a stroke within the past 1-6 months and have specific upper extremity impairment scores.
Not a fit: Patients with recurrent strokes, unstable medical conditions, or significant cognitive deficits may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance recovery outcomes and quality of life for stroke survivors by improving their upper extremity function.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies using robotic-assisted rehabilitation have shown promise, indicating potential for success with this novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * over the age of 18 years, * have a Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity score of 29-42 for moderately impaired (aim 1) or 0-28 for severely impaired (aim 1 and 2), * have body dimensions within the limits of the Harmony system * suffered a stroke within the past 1-6 months (aim 1) or 1 week (aim 2) Exclusion Criteria: * recurrent stroke, * unstable cardiovascular, orthopedic, or neurological conditions, * a history of seizure, * significant communication deficits, * severe upper-limb joint pain or limitations that would restrict their ability to complete the protocols, * inadequate cognitive or language function to consent or to participate, and (7) no phone number or stable mailing address.
Where this trial is running
Seattle, Washington
- VA Puget Sound Health Care System Seattle Division, Seattle, WA — Seattle, Washington, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Brittney C Muir, PhD — VA Puget Sound Health Care System Seattle Division, Seattle, WA
- Study coordinator: Brittney C Muir, PhD
- Email: brittney.muir@va.gov
- Phone: (206) 277-3261
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.