Pilot Test of Caregiver Training Protocol for Brachial Plexus Birth Injury

Launched by HUGO W. MOSER RESEARCH INSTITUTE AT KENNEDY KRIEGER, INC. · Sep 30, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at a new training program for caregivers of infants with Brachial Plexus Birth Injury (BPBI), which can lead to weakness or paralysis in one arm. The goal is to help caregivers learn how to do special stretching exercises, called passive range of motion (PROM), that can improve their child's arm movement and prevent stiffness. The study will compare the effectiveness of this new training method to standard training, focusing on whether it helps caregivers feel more confident and capable in performing these important exercises every day.

To participate, caregivers must be at least 18 years old and have a baby who is 6 months or younger with a confirmed diagnosis of BPBI. Those who join can expect to receive training on how to perform the stretching exercises and will be asked about their confidence and ability to follow through on the training. This trial is important because it aims to find better ways to support caregivers, which could lead to improved outcomes for babies with BPBI, such as less risk of developing arm stiffness and better overall arm function as they grow.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Caregiver, age 18+ of an infant age 6 months or younger with a confirmed BPBI determined by the brachial plexus clinic team at an infant's first visit
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Caregiver of an infant older than 6 months of age scheduled at the brachial clinic Caregiver of an infant scheduled at the brachial plexus clinic with a diagnosis other than BPBI and/or co-morbidity known to cause joint contractures
• • Caregiver of infant with BPBI who requires surgery prior to nine months of age
• • Caregiver who does not speak English unless a JHMI interpreter is present at the clinic visit, at which point a short form consent will be used