RecruitingNAINTERVENTIONAL

Somatosensory Stimulation for Unilateral Neglect Post Stroke (SSUN)

This study is investigating a therapy called Mobilisation and Tactile Stimulation (MTS) for stroke survivors. MTS is a hands-on physical therapy involving movements, massage, and touch to the arm and hand. It’s often used in stroke recovery, but its effects on a condition called 'neglect' aren't well-understood. Neglect is when someone isn't aware of one side of their body after a stroke. The research will involve stroke survivors aged 18 or over, who developed neglect at least 20 weeks ago. Participants will receive six weeks of MTS therapy at home, assisted by a carer. Researchers will measure changes using simple tests to see if the therapy helps improve neglect. The study also aims to gather participants' experiences to understand the impact better.

At a glance

Status

Recruiting

Phase

Sponsor

Keele University

Enrolment target

Start

20 Oct 2025

Estimated completion

01 Jul 2026

Stroke Unilateral Neglect Syndrome

What is this study about?

Imagine you've had a stroke, and now you sometimes struggle to notice things on one side of your body – maybe you forget to shave one side of your face, or you bump into things on your left. This is called 'unilateral neglect' or just 'neglect', and it can be really frustrating. This study is looking into a type of physical therapy called Mobilisation and Tactile Stimulation, or MTS for short, to see if it can help people with this problem.

MTS is a hands-on therapy for the arm and hand. It involves gentle movements of joints, massage, and different kinds of touch and pressure. It’s already a part of standard care for stroke patients who have difficulty moving or feeling their arm. However, we don't yet have enough research to confirm how effective MTS is specifically for neglect. This study aims to gather more clear evidence on whether this therapy can make a difference.

The researchers want to find out if MTS can help people become more aware of their neglected side. They'll be carefully measuring any changes during the study using simple tests. By taking part, you could help us understand better how to support stroke survivors living with neglect.

Key takeaways

This study explores if hands-on therapy (MTS) can help with 'neglect' after stroke.
You'll need to be an adult stroke survivor, at least 20 weeks post-stroke, with neglect.
A carer must be available to assist you with the study activities.
The study involves 6 weeks of home-based MTS therapy, 5 days a week.
Regular, simple tests will be used to monitor your progress.
Participation lasts about 3 months and includes sharing your experiences.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for adult stroke survivors, aged 18 or older, who are experiencing 'neglect' – meaning they notice less or are unaware of one side of their body. You must have had your stroke at least 20 weeks ago.

You'll need to be able to understand what the study involves and be happy to give your permission to take part. You should also be able to follow simple instructions, like moving your unaffected arm, and be willing to have regular therapy sessions at home. Importantly, you'll need a carer who can help you with the research activities.

However, this study might not be suitable if you have major difficulties with communication that mean you can't understand instructions or fully agree to take part. Also, if you don't speak or understand English and don't have access to an interpreter, you won't be able to join this particular study.

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.

Are you 18 years old or older?
Have you had a stroke at least 20 weeks ago?
Do you experience 'neglect' (difficulty noticing one side of your body)?
Can you understand what the study involves and agree to take part?
Can you follow simple instructions?
Do you have a carer who can help you with the research at home?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to join this study, your involvement will last for about three months. Here's what you can expect:

**Phase 1: Getting Started (Two Weeks)** For the first two weeks, you won't receive the MTS treatment. This time is used by the researchers to take some initial measurements to understand your current situation. This helps them compare your progress later on.

**Phase 2: The MTS Treatment (Six Weeks)** After the initial two weeks, you'll start the MTS therapy. A therapist will provide hands-on treatment for 45-60 minutes, five days a week, for a total of six weeks. This therapy will take place at your home. During this time, the regular measurements will continue.

**Phase 3: Follow-Up (Two Weeks)** Once your six weeks of MTS treatment are complete, there will be a final two-week period where you won't receive any more treatment. The researchers will continue to take measurements during this time to see if any changes are maintained.

**Assessments:** Throughout these phases, a research therapist will visit you twice a week to conduct three different tests to assess your neglect. These include: * **Letter Cancellation Test:** You'll be asked to cross out specific letters on a sheet. * **Catherine Bergego Scale (CBS):** Your therapist or carer will observe daily activities, like brushing your hair, and note how you manage. * **Fluff Test:** You'll be blindfolded and asked to remove stickers from your body using your unaffected hand.

Your carer will also be trained to use the CBS and will conduct some daily assessments. After the ten weeks of treatment and follow-up are finished, you'll be invited to chat with the researchers in an interview. This is a chance to share your personal experiences and help them understand the study's impact on you.

Potential risks and benefits

While we can't promise that you'll directly benefit from taking part, we know that many therapists find this extra treatment helpful for stroke survivors. MTS is a commonly used therapy and generally has very few side effects. There's a small chance you might experience some arm discomfort, like an 'overuse syndrome,' but the therapists can adjust the treatment to help manage this. Remember, taking part in any study is entirely your choice, and you are free to withdraw at any time without having to give a reason.

Locations (1)

Some site locations are approximate. We're improving this — please verify with the trial team before travelling.

Midlands Partnership University NHS Foundation Trust
Verified postcode
Newcastle-under-Lyme, United Kingdom· Recruiting

Common questions

What is 'neglect' after a stroke?

Neglect is when a person isn't fully aware of one side of their body or the space around it after a stroke. For example, they might only eat food from one side of their plate.

What is Mobilisation and Tactile Stimulation (MTS)?

MTS is a hands-on physical therapy that involves gentle joint movements, massage, and different kinds of touch to the arm and hand, usually after a stroke.

How long will I be in the study?

You will be involved for about three months in total: two weeks of initial checks, six weeks of therapy, and then two weeks of follow-up checks.

Do I need a carer to take part?

Yes, you will need a carer who is willing to help you with the research activities at home throughout the study.

Will I have to go to a clinic for treatment?

No, the therapy sessions will be delivered at your home.

How to find out more

Ali Aries, PhD

a.m.aries@keele.ac.uk 07713278910 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.