Proof of efficacy in stroke rehabilitation for a novel home-based technology
This study explores a new method to help people who have had a stroke regain strength and control in their hand. Many stroke survivors experience weakness and difficulty with hand movements. This research tests a special mobile phone game that involves repetitive gripping exercises. As you play, a small device gives gentle electrical pulses to a nerve in your arm. The aim is to see if combining these movements with nerve stimulation can improve how well your hand works. Participants will visit a lab a few times for checks, and use the device at home for a period. We hope this study will find new ways to help people recover hand function.
At a glance
What is this study about?
After a stroke, it's common for people to find that one of their hands doesn't work as well as it used to. It might feel weak or clumsy, making everyday tasks difficult. This study is looking into a brand new approach to help improve hand movement and coordination for stroke survivors. We want to see if using a special training programme can make a real difference.
The idea behind this study is to combine repetitive hand exercises with gentle nerve stimulation. Imagine playing a simple mobile phone game where you need to grip and release your hand many times. While you're doing this, a small device gives very mild electrical pulses to a nerve in your arm. The hope is that these pulses, given at just the right time during movement, can help 'rewire' the brain and improve how your hand functions. We're doing this research to understand if this new method is truly effective.
This study is important because if this new therapy works, it could offer a new and convenient way for stroke survivors to improve their hand control from their own homes. We are carefully studying this to understand its benefits and ensure it's a safe and helpful option for people in the future.
Key takeaways
- This study evaluates a new approach to improve hand function after a stroke.
- It combines repetitive hand movements with gentle electrical nerve stimulation.
- Participants will use a special device and play a mobile phone game at home.
- There are three visits to Newcastle University for assessments.
- The study lasts from October 2024 to December 2026.
- There are no known risks; potential benefit is improved hand function.
Who may be eligible?
To join this study, you need to be an adult between 18 and 100 years old who has had a stroke more than six months ago. Your stroke should have affected your hand mildly or moderately, meaning you still have some movement, but it's not as good as it used to be.
There are a few reasons why you might not be able to take part. For example, if your stroke has made it very difficult to understand conversations or if you have a memory problem that makes it hard to follow instructions, this study might not be suitable. Also, if you have certain metal implants in your head, a history of epilepsy, severe shoulder pain, or problems with loud noises, you wouldn't be able to join. If English isn't your first language, don't worry, we can arrange for an interpreter to help you understand everything.
Could this study suit you?
Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.
- Have I had a stroke more than 6 months ago?
- Is my hand mildly or moderately affected by the stroke (not severely)?
- Am I aged between 18 and 100 years old?
- Do I understand information well and can follow instructions?
- Do I have any metal implants in my head or a history of epilepsy?
- Do I have severe shoulder pain or problems with loud noises?
What does participation involve?
If you decide to take part in this study, you'll need to visit our lab at Newcastle University three times. Each visit will be about four weeks apart. During these visits, we'll do some gentle tests to see how well your hand works and to check the connections between your brain and hand. These tests are safe and commonly used.
Between two of your lab visits (it will be chosen randomly which two), you’ll be given a special device to use at home. This device can measure your hand grip and give very gentle electrical pulses to a nerve in your arm. You'll also play a mobile phone game every day. The game will ask you to make repetitive gripping movements, and the electrical pulses will happen at the same time as these movements. The study is expected to run from October 2024 until December 2026.
Potential risks and benefits
Locations (1)
- University of Newcastle Upon TyneCity onlyNewcastle upon Tyne, United Kingdom
Common questions
What is the main goal of this study?
The main goal is to see if a new mobile phone game combined with gentle nerve stimulation can help stroke survivors improve how their hand works.
Will I get paid to participate?
The study information doesn't mention payment for participation.
How often will I need to use the device at home?
You'll be asked to play a mobile phone game each day, which involves using the device provided.
What is the electrical stimulation like?
The electrical stimulation is described as 'weak' and 'gentle', given to a nerve in the arm.
Who is funding this research?
This study is funded by Newcastle University in the UK.
How to find out more
Stuart Baker
Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.
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