MI-Based Training for Stroke Survivors
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
Stroke is a leading cause of disability. Most stroke survivors face challenge in using their arm and hand to carry out daily task, such as grasping or holding objects. This issue makes it tough for nearly 65% of stroke survivors to return to work and take care of themselves. The cause of their disability is changes in their brain's activity patterns of the motor cortex area. Traditional therapy does not directly alter these brain changes, which makes it less effective. As a way to help stroke survivors, people are looking into ways to train the brain directly. A method they found is motor imagery, which involves mental practicing of a task. Studies suggest that this type of training can potentially alter the brain's patterns, which can be seen through EEG. An EEG shows a fixed pattern during movement, called SMR (sensory motor rhythm). Studies have found that people can learn to control this SMR through mental practice of a task. The SMR changes in a similar way during both movement and motor imagery. Therefore, mental practice of hand tasks can lead to improvement in actual hand movements. It has already been shown that stroke survivors can open their hands more easily after receiving SMR training. Along with that, they also have trouble to hold and release objects. SMR training may be able to address these issues by changing brain patterns. But it is not clear yet if SMR training can improve all three stages of grasping (open, close, release), and to what extent it can enhance overall hand function. This study plans to include 20 adults who have experienced a stroke and have ongoing problems with moving their hands. Half of these participants will take part in a training in which they will learn to control their SMR for three distinct hand tasks (open, close, and release). The first session will be followed by eight training sessions. To guide users toward specific changes in EEG activity, we will provide visual feedback in training. As soon as an appropriate EEG change is made, a hand exoskeleton will help them open and close their hand. The other group of 10 patients will have traditional therapy. They will do 9 sessions of hand exercises. During and after the training, we will test both groups to see how well their hand function improved. The result will help us determine which training method is better for stroke survivors.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
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 data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Neurofeedback-based therapy for stroke survivors?
Research suggests that neurofeedback-based therapy, which involves training the brain to improve its function, can help stroke survivors recover motor skills. Studies show that this treatment can lead to changes in brain activity and improve motor function, especially when practiced regularly at home.12345
Is neurofeedback-based therapy safe for stroke survivors?
Research suggests that neurofeedback-based therapy is generally safe for stroke survivors, with studies showing that participants were able to engage in the therapy without reported adverse effects. The therapy has been associated with improvements in brain activity and motor function, indicating it is well-tolerated.12467
How does neurofeedback-based therapy differ from other treatments for stroke recovery?
Neurofeedback-based therapy for stroke recovery is unique because it uses real-time brain activity feedback to help patients improve motor function by practicing motor imagery (imagining movements) at home. This approach allows for frequent, personalized training that can enhance brain plasticity (the brain's ability to change and adapt) and improve motor skills, unlike traditional therapies that may not provide such direct feedback or flexibility.13489
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for adults who have had a stroke and are struggling with hand movements. Participants will be trained to use their thoughts to control hand tasks like opening, closing, and releasing objects using an EEG-based method.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo 10 sessions of either neurofeedback-based therapy or standard hand exercises over 3-5 weeks
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in hand function using standardized tests
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Neurofeedback - based therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
North Carolina State University
Lead Sponsor