Using mirror therapy and electrical stimulation to improve arm function after stroke
A Randomized Controlled Clinical Trial of Upper Limb Training with Mirror Therapy (MT) and Bilateral Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (Bi-TENS) to Improve Upper Limb Motor Functions in Patients with Stroke
This study is testing if using mirror therapy with electrical stimulation can help stroke patients improve their arm function and daily activities better than a fake version of the therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 90 (estimated) |
| Ages | 50 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Hong Kong and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT03631628 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study compares the effectiveness of two rehabilitation programs: one using mirror therapy combined with bilateral transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (Bi-TENS) and the other using sham mirror therapy with Bi-TENS. Both programs are provided alongside conventional rehabilitation for upper limb training. The aim is to determine if the active treatment is more effective in enhancing upper limb motor functions, daily living activities, community integration, and overall quality of life in stroke patients. The study will assess improvements over a specified period, measuring various functional outcomes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are stroke patients diagnosed with ischemic brain injury or intracerebral hemorrhage who have some movement ability in their affected arm.
Not a fit: Patients with severe contractures, significant peripheral neuropathy, or other medical conditions that impede treatment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance recovery and quality of life for stroke patients by improving their upper limb functions.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using mirror therapy and electrical stimulation for rehabilitation, suggesting potential success for this combined approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. have been diagnosed with ischemic brain injury or intracerebral hemorrhage by MRI or computed tomography within three weeks to 10 years after the first onset of stroke; 2. have volitional control of the non-paretic arm, and at least minimal antigravity movement in the shoulder of the paretic arm; 3. have at least 5 degrees in wrist extension of the paretic arm in the antigravity position 4. are able to score \> 6 of 10 of abbreviated Mental Test; 5. are able to follow instruction and give informed consent of the study. Exclusion Criteria: 1. Have any additional medical, cardiovascular and orthopedic condition that would hinder the proper assessment and treatment; 2. Use cardiac pacemakers; 3. Have receptive dysphasia; 4. Have a significant upper limb peripheral neuropathy (e.g., diabetic polyneuropathy); 5. Have severe shoulder, elbow, wrist or finger contractures that would preclude a passive range of motions of the arm; 6. Have skin allergy that would prevent electrical stimulation; 7. Are involved in drug studies or other clinical trials.
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong and 1 other locations
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
- Shatin Hospital — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Shamay Ng, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- Study coordinator: Shamay NG, PhD
- Email: shamay.ng@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: +852 2766-4889
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.