Using goal setting to improve treatment for upper limb spasticity after stroke
Official title: Goal Attainment Scaling in Upper Limb Spasticity Treatment With Botulinum Toxin and the Influence of Regular Exercise for Spastic Upper Limb on Quality of Life in Patients After Stroke
Run by University Rehabilitation Institute, Republic of Slovenia · NCT04975646 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if setting specific goals and following an exercise program can help people with arm stiffness after a stroke feel better and improve their movement.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 70 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University Rehabilitation Institute, Republic of Slovenia Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Ljubljana) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | January 3, 2021 |
| Main results expected | October 2026 |
| Study ends | October 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 15, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT04975646 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates include individuals who have suffered an ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke and exhibit significant upper limb muscle spasticity.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with other neurological or musculoskeletal diseases that could interfere with treatment outcomes may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study focuses on patients who have experienced ischemic or hemorrhagic strokes and are dealing with upper limb spasticity. Participants will undergo a goal attainment scaling process alongside a comprehensive assessment of their motor functioning before and after receiving botulinum toxin-A (BTX-A). Following this, patients will be randomized into two groups: one will follow a prescribed exercise program while the other will exercise at their own discretion, with health-related quality of life being evaluated at the start and end of the two-week period. The study aims to assess the effectiveness of structured goal setting and exercise on recovery outcomes.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance rehabilitation outcomes and quality of life for stroke patients with upper limb spasticity.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies have shown promise in using goal setting and structured rehabilitation approaches for improving outcomes in similar patient populations.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * patient's or caregiver's approval * ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke diagnosed using head CT/MRI * at least one upper limb muscle spasticity (MAS ≥ 3) * candidate for BTX-A treatment or already given BTX-A in the past * patient's or caregiver's capability for goal attainment protocol cooperation (Mini Mental Examination ≥ 24 points) Exclusion Criteria: * aphasic patients without caregiver's presence * other neurological or musculoskeletal diseases that could affect the treatment outcome
Where it's running
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University Rehabilitation Institute, Republic of Slovenia
Ljubljana, Slovenia Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nataša Bizovičar, MD, PhD — University Rehabilitation Institute, Republic of Slovenia
- Study coordinator: Metka Moharić, MD, PhD
- Email: metka.moharic@ir-rs.si
- Phone: +386 1 4758441
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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Remotely Delivered Step Count Rehab After Stroke
This study tests a remotely guided program that uses step counting and six clinician sessions to see if people who had a stroke can feasibly use it at home.
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Best Care for Acute Stroke in General Wards
A nurse-led program called BEST CARE ICTUS_HC is tested in hospitals without Stroke Units to see if it reduces stroke complications and helps recovery after an acute ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke.
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Changes in brain response after transcranial electrical stimulation in stroke patients
This study tests whether transcranial electrical stimulation added to rehabilitation can alter brain blood flow and oxygen use in adults who have had a stroke, from subacute to several years post-stroke.
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Noninvasive brain stimulation plus cognitive-motor dual-task gait training to improve thinking and walking after stroke
This trial will test whether adding high-definition noninvasive brain stimulation (tDCS or tACS) to cognitive-motor dual-task gait training and standard physical therapy helps thinking, brain activity, spinal reflexes, and walking in adults 2 weeks to 5 years after a stroke.
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Using Atorvastatin to Prevent Stroke After Flow Diverter Implantation
This study is testing if the cholesterol-lowering drug atorvastatin can help prevent strokes in patients who have had a flow diverter implanted for unruptured brain aneurysms.
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This project will test whether combining machine learning with brain-related blood markers and bedside monitoring can spot or predict delayed cerebral ischemia in adults with aneurysmal subarachnoid hemorrhage in intensive care.
How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.