Wearable vibration device to help arm movement after stroke
Official title: Effects of Wearable Vibratory Devices for Upper Limb Function Among Subacute Hemiplegic Patients: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Run by University of Faisalabad · NCT07641790 · Data updated 2026-11-12
In people with subacute stroke, this study tests whether adding a wearable vibration device to standard physical therapy helps improve arm movement more than therapy alone.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 30 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Faisalabad Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Faisalābad, Punjab Province) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | February 1, 2026 |
| Main results expected | June 30, 2026 |
| Study ends | July 15, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | June 11, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07641790 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 30–60 with unilateral hemiplegia due to stroke, 3–6 months post-event, FMA-UE 20–50, and mild to moderate spasticity.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with fixed contractures, complete sensory loss, or other neurological conditions may not benefit from this intervention.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This randomized, single-center trial compares standard physiotherapy to standard therapy plus a wearable focal muscle vibrator in adults with subacute hemiplegia after stroke. Participants receive 8 weeks of therapy with or without the device, alongside an EMS warm-up, and are evaluated for spasticity, motor function, and independence. The study uses Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity scores and the Modified Ashworth Scale as primary measures, with the Barthel Index as a secondary outcome. Recruitment targets 28 participants (14 per arm) with specific inclusion/exclusion criteria related to upper limb function and comorbidities. Conducted at the University of Faisalabad, the trial aims to clarify whether FMV provides added benefit during rehabilitation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, patients may experience greater improvements in arm function and independence after stroke when using wearable vibration during therapy.
How similar studies have gone: Previous research on focal muscle vibration suggests potential benefits for motor improvement, but results vary and this approach is being tested in a tightly defined subacute stroke population.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Unilateral hemiplegia secondary to stroke * Age between 30 and 60 years * Subacute stage (3 to 6 months post-stroke) * Fugl-Meyer Assessment (FMA) score between 20 and 50 * Able to follow simple verbal commands Exclusion Criteria: * Previous peripheral nerve injury or surgery affecting the upper limb * Fixed contractures or bony fractures in the affected limb * Complete sensory loss of the upper limb * Co-existing neurological conditions (e.g., Parkinson's, MS, Dementia) * Unstable cardiovascular conditions
Where it's running
-
The University of Faisalabad
Faisalābad, Punjab Province, Pakistan Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Dr. Anbreena Rasool, Doctor of Physical Therapy
- Email: anbreenarasool.DPT@tuf.edu.pk
- Phone: +92 345 79368
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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.