Using a wearable device to improve arm movement after stroke

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study explores the feasibility of a myoelectric-computer interface (MCI) designed to enhance arm movement in individuals who have experienced a stroke. It addresses the issue of impaired coordination caused by abnormal muscle co-activation, which affects recovery. Participants will use the MCI at home, and the study will compare its effects against a sham device in both chronic and acute stroke survivors. The study employs a randomized, controlled, and blinded design to ensure reliable results.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

Chronic stroke participants

* Hemiparesis from first ever stroke at least 6 months prior to screening
* Severe motor impairment (FMA of 7-30)
* At least some voluntary shoulder and elbow muscle activation.

Acute stroke participants

* Hemiparesis from first ever stroke within the past 21 days
* Severe motor impairment (FMA of 3-20), or total Manual Motor Score of 1-8 combined in Shoulder Abduction and Finger Extensors

Exclusion Criteria:

* Cognitive impairment with at least moderately impaired attention, or unable to follow instructions of the MCI task
* Visual impairment (such as hemianopia) preventing full view of the screen
* Anesthesia or neglect in the affected arm, or visual hemineglect (score of 2 on the NIH Stroke Scale Extinction and Inattention subtest).
* Participation in another study on the affected arm within 6 weeks of enrollment or any pharmacological study
* Inability to understand or follow commands in English due to aphasia or other reason
* Diffuse or multifocal infarcts
* Substantial arm pain preventing participation for 90 minutes a day
* New spasticity treatment (pharmacological or Botox)

Where it's running

• Northwestern University
  Chicago, Illinois, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Study coordinator: Marc W Slutzky, MD, PhD
• Email: mslutzky@northwestern.edu
• Phone: 3125034653

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.