Epidural Electrical Stimulation for Stroke Patients - Improve Motor and Sensory Function and Alleviate Pain

Launched by BUDDHIST TZU CHI GENERAL HOSPITAL · Aug 1, 2023

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a treatment called epidural electrical stimulation (EES) to help stroke patients regain movement and feeling in their arms, as well as reduce pain. The focus is on individuals who have experienced a stroke and are dealing with weakness on one side of their body, known as hemiplegia. The researchers want to see if stimulating the spinal cord can help activate the muscles in the upper limbs for those affected by their first stroke.

To participate in this trial, individuals should be between 20 and 70 years old and have had their first stroke, which has resulted in weakness on one side of their body. They should also be in a stable medical condition and able to follow the study procedures. Participants will undergo spinal cord stimulation surgery and will be closely monitored throughout the study. It's important to note that certain conditions, such as significant mental health issues or serious medical problems, may prevent someone from joining the trial. This study aims to improve the quality of life for stroke survivors, and participants will play a vital role in helping researchers understand the effectiveness of this new approach.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Between 20 and 70 years of age
• • First-ever clinical manifest stroke
• • Right or left hemiparesis
• • Scores higher than 7 and lower than 45 on the Fugl-Meyer scale.
• • Expected will undergo spinal cord stimulation surgery.
• • Able to comply with procedures and follow up.
• • Stable medical condition without cardiopulmonary disease or dysautonomia that would contraindicate participation in upper extremity rehabilitation or testing activities.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Pregnancy or breast feeding.
• • Have Major depressive disorder.
• • Had a mental illness within one year or been treated in the past.
• • Have significant cognitive impairment (MMSE\<24) or serious disease that could affect the ability to participate in study activities.
• • Cardiovascular or musculoskeletal disease or injury that would prevent full participation in physical therapy intervention.
• • Receiving anticoagulant, anti-spasticity or anti-epileptic medications prior to or throughout the duration of the study.
• • Unable to read and/or comprehend the consent form.
• • Have concerns about this trial and do not sign consent.
• • Presence of joint contractures deemed by study clinician/investigator to be too severe to participate in study activities.