Using a shoulder sling to improve balance and mobility in stroke recovery
A Cross-Over Study on the Effect of Shoulder Sling Use on Balance and Functional Mobility in Patients With Hemiplegia During the Subacute Phase of Stroke Rehabilitation
This study is testing if using a shoulder sling can help people recovering from a stroke improve their balance and mobility.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 17 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of West Attica Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Koropí, Attica) |
| Trial ID | NCT06904768 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the effectiveness of a shoulder sling in enhancing balance and mobility for individuals recovering from a stroke in the subacute phase. Participants will undergo a series of validated functional tests, including the Timed Up and Go test, the Functional Reach Test, and the Modified Four Square Step Test, both with and without the sling in a randomized order. The goal is to assess whether the sling provides measurable benefits in stability and performance during movement tasks. Data collection will occur in rehabilitation centers under the supervision of clinical researchers.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 40 to 80 who have experienced a stroke in the subacute phase and have hemiplegia affecting one upper limb.
Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive impairment, significant orthopedic conditions, or those unable to use the sling due to other medical issues may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the stability and mobility of stroke patients, enhancing their ability to perform daily activities safely.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific use of a shoulder sling in this context may be novel, similar studies have shown that targeted interventions can improve mobility and balance in stroke recovery.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical diagnosis of stroke in the subacute phase (up to 6 months post-onset) * Hemiplegia affecting one upper limb * Brunnstrom stage \< 4 for the affected upper limb * Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) score \> 3 * Age between 40 and 80 years * Ability to follow simple instructions * Medically stable to participate in balance and mobility testing * Signed informed consent Exclusion Criteria: * Severe cognitive impairment (e.g. MMSE \< 23) * Visual or vestibular disorders affecting balance * Significant orthopedic or musculoskeletal conditions of the lower limbs * Uncontrolled cardiovascular or pulmonary disease * Use of assistive devices that prevent sling application * Severe aphasia interfering with understanding or communication * Skin lesions or injuries at the shoulder region preventing sling use
Where this trial is running
Koropí, Attica
- Filoktitis Recovery and Rehabilitation Center — Koropí, Attica, Greece (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Stylianos Arnaoutis
- Email: mscphys23001@uniwa.gr
- Phone: +306981199528
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.