Finger Movement Training After Stroke

Launched by NORTH CAROLINA STATE UNIVERSITY · Nov 11, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new way to help people who have had a stroke regain better control of their hand movements. The focus is on using a combination of electrical stimulation to certain nerves along with a special robotic glove that helps move the fingers and thumb. This method aims to encourage repetitive practice of independent finger movements, which can be crucial for improving hand function after a stroke.

If you or a family member had a stroke 2 to 9 months ago and have moderate to mild difficulty with hand movements, you might be eligible to participate. The trial involves 15 training sessions over 5 weeks, where participants will work on moving their fingers independently. Before, during, and after the training, the researchers will assess how well the hand is functioning. It’s important to know that individuals with certain joint issues, severe pain, or specific types of attention difficulties won’t be able to join the study. This trial aims to provide a promising new approach to rehabilitation, and participants may find it helpful in their recovery journey.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • A single, unilateral stroke 2-18 months prior to enrollment
• • Moderate to mild hand impairment, as determined by a rating of Stage 4-6 on the Stage of Hand section of the Chedoke-McMaster Stroke Assessment
• • Visual capacity to discern specific shapes on the computer screen
• • Capacity to provide informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Rigid contractures in the joints of the upper limbs, or orthopedic issues precluding joint movement
• • Hemispatial neglect (as assessed by the Behavioral Inattention Test)
• • Excessive pain in the paretic upper limb (visual analog scale of shoulder pain \< 70)