Using piano playing to enhance hand function after stroke
A Piano Training Program to Improve Manual Dexterity and Upper Extremity Function in Subacute Stroke Survivors
NA · McGill University · NCT06621771
This study is testing whether playing the piano for six weeks can help people recovering from a stroke improve their hand function and overall well-being.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 40 Years to 74 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | McGill University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Laval, Quebec) |
| Trial ID | NCT06621771 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the feasibility of a 6-week piano playing intervention for individuals recovering from a subacute stroke. Participants will engage in supervised piano training sessions designed to improve manual dexterity and coordination of the upper extremities, alongside conventional therapy. The intervention includes two 45-minute sessions per week, utilizing a MIDI piano program to facilitate learning and practice. The study aims to assess the acceptability of the intervention and its effects on various functional outcomes, including attention and mood.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have experienced a first-ever unilateral stroke within 1 to 24 weeks and can follow simple instructions.
Not a fit: Patients with visual field defects, cognitive deficits, or prior piano experience may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly enhance hand function and overall rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of music therapy in rehabilitation is gaining traction, this specific approach using piano training is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in similar contexts.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Have normal/corrected visual and auditory acuity * Present a first-ever supratentorial unilateral stroke (1-24 weeks post-stroke) * Present some capacity of dissociation of arm and finger movements, as reflected by scores of 3 to 6 on the arm and hand components of the Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment * Have the capacity to follow simple instructions * Have no professional piano experience (only for the piano group) Exclusion Criteria: * Presence of visual field defect, hemineglect as well as dementia or moderate-to-severe cognitive deficits (score less than 18 on the Montreal Cognitive Assessment).
Where this trial is running
Laval, Quebec
- Jewish Rehabilitation Hospital — Laval, Quebec, Canada (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anouk Lamontagne, PhD — McGill University
- Study coordinator: Anouk Lamontagne, PhD
- Email: anouk.lamontagne@mcgill.ca
- Phone: 450-688-9550
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.
Conditions: Stroke, Music therapy, Rehabilitation, Intervention, Upper extremity, dexterity