Using ride-on toys to help children with hemiplegia improve arm function
A Novel, Child-friendly, Home-based Navigation Training Program Using Joystick-operated Ride-on Toys to Improve Upper Extremity Function in Children With Hemiplegia: A Pilot Study
NA · University of Connecticut · NCT06579027
This study is testing two fun training programs using ride-on toys and creative activities to see which one helps young children with hemiplegia improve their arm function better.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 3 Years to 8 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Connecticut (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Storrs, Connecticut) |
| Trial ID | NCT06579027 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study evaluates the feasibility and effectiveness of two play-based training programs aimed at enhancing upper extremity function in children aged 3 to 8 years with hemiplegia. The programs, SPEED training using joystick-operated powered ride-on toys and CRAFT training focusing on creative upper extremity activities, are co-delivered by researchers and caregivers in home and community settings. Participants will undergo assessments to measure their arm function and spontaneous use of the affected arm before, during, and after the intervention period. The study aims to determine which training method is more effective in promoting arm motor function.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 3 to 8 years diagnosed with hemiplegia who can maintain a supported sitting position.
Not a fit: Patients with only lower limb involvement or those with severe visual impairments or fixed deformities in the upper extremities may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this program could significantly improve the arm function and daily activity participation of children with hemiplegia.
How similar studies have performed: While similar play-based interventions have shown promise, this specific approach using ride-on toys is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Boys and girls between the ages of 3 - 8 years * Diagnosed with hemiplegia by a medical doctor with clear asymmetry in upper extremity strength and control (i.e., one upper limb is clearly weaker than the other) * Can maintain a supported sitting position for at least 15 minutes Exclusion Criteria: * Only lower limb involvement * Recent history (within past 6 months) of trauma or surgery or Botox * Uncorrected blindness/profound visual impairment * Fixed deformities at wrist or hand * No active control in affected UE * Inability to follow 2-step directions * Weight \> 150 lbs.
Where this trial is running
Storrs, Connecticut
- Physical Therapy Program, Department of Kinesiology, University of Connecticut — Storrs, Connecticut, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Sudha M Srinivasan, PhD
- Email: sudha.srinivasan@uconn.edu
- Phone: 860-486-6192
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: Hemiplegia, Cerebral Palsy, Children, Only