Music-Based Interventions for Stroke
(OptiMUS Trial)
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how playing music can aid stroke recovery. Participants will tap on a drum while listening to or creating music, and researchers will measure their physical and mental responses. The goal is to determine if activities like improvising or having live accompaniment can enhance motor skills and emotional well-being. The trial seeks individuals who had a stroke at least six months ago and can move their wrists independently, or healthy individuals without any history of neurological issues. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could improve rehabilitation methods for stroke survivors.
Do I have to stop taking my current medications for the trial?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. It's best to discuss this with the trial coordinators or your doctor.
What prior data suggests that this music playing task is safe for stroke patients and healthy participants?
Research has shown that music therapy is generally safe and well-received by stroke patients. Studies have found that it can improve movement, thinking skills, and emotional health, enhancing the overall quality of life for those recovering from a stroke. Notably, over 70% of studies on music therapy report positive outcomes without major side effects. This makes music therapy a promising and safe option for aiding stroke recovery.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about the music-based interventions for stroke rehabilitation because they offer a novel approach compared to traditional physical and occupational therapies. Unlike standard treatments that focus primarily on physical exercises and repetitive tasks, these interventions incorporate music playing tasks, which engage the brain's auditory and motor systems simultaneously. This dual engagement might enhance neuroplasticity, which is the brain's ability to reorganize itself by forming new neural connections. Additionally, music therapy can improve motivation and emotional well-being, potentially leading to more effective and enjoyable rehabilitation experiences for stroke survivors.
What evidence suggests that this music playing task could be effective for stroke patients?
Research has shown that music therapy can aid stroke recovery. Studies have found that music activities improve movement, lift mood, and support overall brain recovery. Notably, about 73% of studies in this field report positive outcomes. This trial will explore various music-playing tasks, such as improvisation and maintaining a beat, with or without live accompaniment, to assess their impact on recovery. Music therapy can also enhance hand use and daily tasks, which are crucial for stroke patients. Additionally, music increases motivation, making it easier for patients to continue their rehab exercises. These findings suggest that playing music could support recovery in stroke patients.14678
Who Is on the Research Team?
Heidi Schambra, MD
Principal Investigator
NYU Langone Health
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for stroke patients aged 18-75 with mild to moderate disability who can move their wrist muscles without help and walk independently. They must have had a stroke at least 6 months prior and agree to MRI procedures. Healthy participants matched in age, gender, and education level to a stroke participant are also eligible.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Baseline Assessment
Participants complete baseline measures before the music playing task
Music Task
Participants perform music playing tasks with variations in improvisation and accompaniment while undergoing fMRI and other measurements
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for any delayed effects or responses post-music task
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Music Playing Task
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
NYU Langone Health
Lead Sponsor
National Institutes of Health (NIH)
Collaborator