Evaluating Error Augmentation for Neurorehabilitation

Completed · Not applicable

Conditions studied: Stroke

In brief

This is a sub-project of a larger NIDRR Grant. One promising form of robotic training that leverages the power of neuro-plasticity is error augmentation. In this paradigm the computer singles out and magnifies a stroke survivor's movement errors from a desired trajectory, thus forcing the subjects to strengthen their control. Using the VRROOM, a state-of-the-art system which uses haptics (robotic forces) and graphics (visual display) interfaces, a subject's desired trajectory can be determined and the movement errors can be amplified in real-time with dramatic results. This project evaluates a practical approach of error augmentation, using therapist-driven trajectories. The investigators intend to determine clinical efficacy of several types of therapist-assisted error augmentation on retraining the nervous system in functional activities. The investigators will test two experimental treatments in a crossover design. The investigators hypothesize that combined haptic and visual error augmentation will lead to the best functional recovery.

Key facts

Study ID

NCT01574495

Run by

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

People needed

40

Starts

2008-01-01

Expected to finish

2012-03-01

Last updated by the study team

2015-09-24

Who can join

Age: 18 and older. Sex: any. Healthy volunteers: accepted.

You may qualify if…

• adult (age >18)
• survived a single cortical stroke at least 6 months previously involving ischemia or hemorrhage of the middle cerebral artery (MCA),
• demonstrated the presence of some active shoulder and elbow movement (characterized by Fugl-Meyer Assessment Upper Extremity scores ranging from 15-50 for ARM 1; 25-50 for ARM 2).

You may not qualify if…

• diffuse or multiple lesion sites or multiple stroke events
• bilateral paresis
• severe spasticity or contracture (Modified Ashworth ≥3
• severe concurrent medical problems
• severe sensory deficits
• cerebellar strokes resulting in severe ataxia
• significant shoulder pain
• focal tone management with Botulinim Toxin (Botox®) injection to the hemiparetic upper extremity (UE) within the previous four months,
• aphasia that would influence the ability to perform the experiment
• cognitive impairment (Mini Mental State Examination < 23/30)
• affective dysfunction that would influence the ability to perform the experiment
• depth perception impairment (< 3 on Stereo Circle Test)
• visual field cut or hemispatial neglect that would influence the ability to participate in the activity
• inability to provide informed consent

Where it is running

• Rehabilitation Institute of Chicago — Chicago, Illinois, United States

Full record on ClinicalTrials.gov

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