Robot Therapy for Stroke
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial aims to determine if affordable robot therapy can help stroke survivors in Botswana, with or without HIV, improve their physical abilities. The focus is on using robot and mobile health technologies to make rehabilitation more accessible and cost-effective. The study seeks stroke survivors who can handle therapy and have moderate cognitive function. Participants should be at least three months post-stroke and medically stable.
As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance rehabilitation options for stroke survivors.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. It is up to the physician to decide if a subject should be excluded due to taking medication that would impair cognitive ability.
What prior data suggests that this robot therapy is safe for stroke survivors?
Research shows that robot-assisted therapy is generally well-tolerated for stroke recovery. Studies have found that it helps patients improve movement after therapy. Although some studies suggest that robot therapy may not always surpass traditional rehab in effectiveness, it has not raised major safety concerns. This indicates that the therapy is unlikely to cause harm or serious side effects. Therefore, evidence suggests that this type of therapy is quite safe for participants considering joining a trial.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Robot Therapy for stroke recovery is unique because it leverages advanced robotic technology to aid in rehabilitation, offering precision and consistency that human therapists might not be able to achieve. Unlike traditional physical therapy, which relies heavily on manual exercises and therapist interaction, robot therapy can provide repetitive and targeted movements, which are crucial for neuroplasticity and motor recovery. Researchers are excited because this method has the potential to enhance the rehabilitation process, especially for stroke survivors with complex conditions like those with HIV/AIDS, by offering tailored therapy that adapts to individual patient needs and progress.
What evidence suggests that robot therapy is effective for stroke rehabilitation?
Research has shown that robotic therapy, which participants in this trial will receive, can help stroke patients improve movement abilities. One study found that therapy with robots led to better recovery of motor skills than traditional rehabilitation methods. Another study demonstrated that robotic therapy improved endurance, balance, and cognitive skills. Additionally, robotic training for the legs helped stroke patients walk better. While some studies suggest that the improvements might not be life-changing, the overall evidence indicates a moderate but important benefit from using robotic therapy.12567
Who Is on the Research Team?
Michelle J Johnson, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Pennsylvania
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for adults over 18 in Botswana who've had a stroke and are living with or without HIV. They should have moderate neurological function and cognitive ability, be medically stable to handle therapy, and able to consent. People with severe drug/alcohol abuse, depression, excessive pain, extreme spasticity or paralysis, psychiatric or cardiac issues, prior brain injury or open lesions can't join.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Optimization
Optimization of the robot system for the Botswana context, including cost-effectiveness and local resource utilization
Treatment
Participants receive therapy using the robot gym system and standard of care
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- Robot Therapy
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Pennsylvania
Lead Sponsor