An Upper Extremity Exoskeleton to Target Unwanted Joint Synergies During Repetitive Training in Stroke Survivors

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Jul 18, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a new robotic device called Harmony, designed to help stroke survivors improve their arm movement during therapy. After a stroke, many patients find it hard to regain full use of their arms, which can make daily activities challenging. The trial will test two special ways to control the robot that aim to make therapy easier and more effective by encouraging proper movement patterns. This could help veterans who have had strokes regain the ability to do everyday tasks and enhance their overall quality of life.

To participate in this trial, individuals must be over 18 years old and have experienced a stroke within the last 1 to 6 months. They should have certain levels of arm movement ability, as measured by a specific test, and meet other criteria related to their health. Participants can expect to engage in training sessions using the robotic device, which will assist them in practicing arm movements repeatedly. This innovative approach to rehabilitation may offer new hope for improving recovery after a stroke.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • over the age of 18 years,
• • have a Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity score of 29-42 for moderately impaired (aim 1) or 0-28 for severely impaired (aim 1 and 2),
• • have body dimensions within the limits of the Harmony system
• • suffered a stroke within the past 1-6 months (aim 1) or 1 week (aim 2)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • recurrent stroke,
• • unstable cardiovascular, orthopedic, or neurological conditions,
• • a history of seizure,
• • significant communication deficits,
• • severe upper-limb joint pain or limitations that would restrict their ability to complete the protocols,
• • inadequate cognitive or language function to consent or to participate, and (7) no phone number or stable mailing address.