Chronic Stroke

Functional impairments in the upper extremities following a stroke significantly restrict individuals' activities of daily living and overall quality of life; in this context, Action Observation Training (AOT) has emerged in recent years as an effective rehabilitation method that promotes motor learning processes and cortical activity by activating the mirror neuron system. Although the literature acknowledges the positive effects on neural mechanisms of both unimanuel approaches, which focus on the paretic hand alone, and bimanual approaches, which involve the simultaneous use of both hands, there remains a gap regarding which method yields superior outcomes. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of AOT interventions consisting of exclusively unimanual versus exclusively bimanual activities on upper extremity functions, activities of daily living, and quality of life in chronic stroke patients, while investigating the potential differences between the outcomes of these two distinct approaches.

Stroke, a leading cause of disability worldwide, particularly affects upper extremity function, rendering individuals dependent on others for daily living activities and reducing their quality of life. To mitigate these effects, Action Observation Therapy (AOT), which has gained prominence in recent years, activates the mirror neuron system, triggering learning processes in the motor cortex and supporting functional recovery through the imitation of observed movements. Furthermore, telerehabilitation offers a significant advantage in facilitating access to rehabilitation services for these patients requiring long-term treatment, eliminating barriers such as transportation and cost. The absence of studies in the literature comparing the effectiveness of combining these two methods on hand skills and quality of life in individuals with chronic stroke with conventional physiotherapy makes investigating the clinical value of this approach academically unique and necessary.

The aim of this study is to describe the effect of neuromuscular electrical stimulation (NMES) in the form of functional electrical stimulation (FES) applied to different lower limb muscles on reactive balance and gait performance in stroke participants. Methods: Twenty individuals with chronic stroke will be asked to perform an experimental protocol that includes a postural disturbance in the form of a slip- or trip-like perturbation and a standardized walking test in both laboratory and outdoor environments with and without FES applied to different lower limb muscles of the paretic leg. FES will be applied using an advanced software that is able to synchronize muscle activation with the time of perturbation onset and according to the phases of gait. This project design aims to examine whether a specific pattern of lower limb muscle stimulation could improve the kinematic and behavioral responses during reactive balance following slip- and trip-like perturbations. Additionally, the project aims to see if the kinematic and spatio-temporal gait parameters can be modified during a standardized walking test under different sensory and environmental conditions.

Chronic post-stroke hemiplegia frequently results in persistent motor deficits, impaired balance, and reduced quality of life. Conventional physical therapy is fundamental for functional recovery; however, motor improvement often plateaus during the chronic phase. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has shown potential to enhance motor recovery by modulating cortical excitability and promoting neuroplasticity. This case series aims to investigate the effects of a combined protocol of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and conventional physical therapy on motor function, balance, and quality of life in individuals with chronic post-stroke hemiplegia. Participants will undergo rTMS applied to the motor cortex in conjunction with a structured physical therapy program. Clinical outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention to explore feasibility, safety, and potential functional benefits of the combined approach.

This study will evaluate the effects of combining motor learning-based therapy with use of the MyoPro , a wearable exoskeletal myoelectrically controlled orthotic device. MyoPro uses electromyographic (EMG) signals from the weak muscles to assist movement of the user's affected arm. The primary objective of this randomized controlled trial is to study the efficacy of using MyoPro in motor learning-based therapy for individuals with chronic stroke (\>6 months post) with severe upper limb motor deficits (Fugl-Meyer for Upper Limb score less than 30) compared with a similar dose of motor learning-based therapy alone. The secondary objectives are to evaluate neuroplasticity mechanisms, identify biomarkers of greater response to the intervention, and explore cost-effectiveness.

The primary aim of this study is to evaluate the relationship between the CONUT score, which reflects nutritional status, and balance performance in patients with chronic stroke. The secondary aims are to investigate the association between the CONUT score and functional status and stroke-specific quality of life, as well as to assess the relationships of mid-upper arm circumference, an anthropometric indicator of nutritional status, and ultrasonographic rectus femoris muscle thickness, which reflects muscle mass, with balance performance, functional status, and stroke-specific quality of life. In addition, the study aims to examine the relationships between bone mineral density and balance, functional status, and ambulation level in patients with chronic stroke.

This clinical trial compares two types of robotic hand rehabilitation-brain wave (EEG)-timed therapy versus simple repetitive therapy-to see which is more effective for recovering hand function in patients with chronic stroke. Participants will be randomly assigned to either group and will attend sessions using a wearable robotic hand device while wearing an EEG cap. In the EEG-timed group, the robot assists hand movements when participants successfully imagine moving and create specific brain signals, whereas in the repetitive group, the robot moves the hand automatically at set intervals. Both groups will receive a matched dose of robotic training to ensure a fair comparison of how the brain and hand function respond to the therapy.

Background: Most patients suffer from post-stroke somatosensory and motor impairments, and 50% to 70% of patients in the chronic stage still have upper extremity impairments that severely limit their functional independence and quality of life. Somatosensory and motor functions are closely related to each other. Previous evidence showed that somatosensory training or stimulation can modulate motor performance and enhance the efficacy of motor training, and motor training has the potential to promote the reorganization of the somatosensory cortex and enhance somatosensory-motor integration. Therefore, combining somatosensory and motor training may optimize the recovery of upper limb function. However, due to the small number of relevant empirical studies and the low quality of evidence, the effects and neural mechanisms of combined somatosensory and motor training compared with pure somatosensory training or pure motor training are still unknown or uncertain. Purposes: This project will compare the immediate and long-term effects of somatosensory-motor integration training, pure motor training, and pure somatosensory training on the somatosensory and motor functions of patients with chronic stroke, and will investigate the neural mechanisms of somatosensory-motor recovery using neuroimaging and neurophysiological techniques. Research methods: A single-blind (assessor-blinded) randomized controlled trial design will be used in this three-year project. A sample of 153 patients with chronic stroke will be recruited, and subjects who meet the selection criteria will undergo a baseline assessment and then be randomly assigned in stratified blocks to either the somatosensory-motor integration training group, pure somatosensory training group or pure motor training group. Subjects will receive three to five 60-minute sessions per week for a total of 15 sessions, followed by post-intervention (immediate effect) and three-month follow-up (long-term effect) assessments. Outcome measures will include neuroimaging (functional near-infrared spectroscopy.), and clinical scales (somatosensory function, motor function, upper extremity function, real life functional upper extremity performance., daily activities, and quality of life). The data will be analyzed using intention-to-treat analysis. The treatment effects within each group will be determined by paired t tests. The difference in effects among the three groups will be analyzed by analyses of covariate. Multiple linear regressions will also be used to explore the factors affecting the recovery of somatosensory and motor functions. Expected results and contributions: The researchers expect that somatosensory-motor integration training, pure somatosensory training and pure motor training can all effectively improve the somatosensory and motor functions of patients with stroke. Among the three groups, somatosensory-motor integration training will show the greatest improvement in upper extremity function. The results of this project will provide empirical evidence on the effects and neural mechanisms of somatosensory-motor integration training, which will help clinicians select appropriate treatment strategies, facilitate clinical reasoning, and predict the recovery potential of somatosensory-motor function based on patient characteristics.

The central objective of this application is to explore the neural substrate of personalized tDCS (ptDCS) and to determine whether the paradigm for each stroke patient can predict the amount of sustained clinical improvement through increased connectivity as measured by a biomarker of plasticity.

This study is a randomized controlled trial designed to evaluate the effectiveness of a semi-autonomous upper-limb rehabilitation program based on exergames in adults with chronic stroke. Participants will be randomly assigned (1:1) to either an exergame-based intervention or an individually delivered conventional home-based therapy program. The primary outcome is upper-limb functionality as measured by the Action Research Arm Test (ARAT). Secondary outcomes include upper-limb motor function and quality of life. The study also examines adherence, usability, and the feasibility of remote monitoring for long-term implementation.

The main purpose of the current studies is to evaluate the safety and tolerability of psilocybin in patients with chronic stroke.

Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability, with upper limb spasticity and impaired hand function being common problems in the chronic phase. These impairments significantly affect independence in activities of daily living and overall quality of life. Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy (CIMT) and Bilateral Training (BT) are two widely used neurorehabilitation approaches aimed at improving upper limb motor recovery after stroke; however, evidence comparing their effectiveness on wrist spasticity and hand function in chronic stroke patients remains limited. This single-blinded randomized controlled trial aims to compare the effects of Constraint-Induced Movement Therapy combined with Functional Electrical Stimulation (FES) versus Bilateral Training combined with Functional Electrical Stimulation on wrist spasticity and hand function in patients with chronic stroke. A total of 94 participants diagnosed with chronic stroke will be randomly allocated into two groups. Group A will receive CIMT with FES, while Group B will receive Bilateral Training with FES. Both interventions will be administered three times per week for eight weeks. Outcome measures will include wrist spasticity assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) and upper limb motor function assessed using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) and the Chedoke Arm and Hand Activity Inventory (CAHAI). Assessments will be conducted at baseline and after completion of the intervention period. The findings of this study are expected to provide evidence on the comparative effectiveness of CIMT and Bilateral Training in improving wrist spasticity and hand function, thereby assisting clinicians in selecting optimal rehabilitation strategies for chronic stroke patients.

Aphasia is an acquired language disorder. Stroke is the most common cause of aphasia, which affects 30% of stroke survivors. Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) can help people with aphasia but it may not be provided at the required intensity. Access to therapy is often limited after the first few months following stroke. People with aphasia can improve with therapy many years after stroke but these benefits have not been found to translate to day to day conversation. Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) is a non-invasive technique which involves stimulating a branch of the vagus nerve through the skin of the ear, using a small earpiece. This technique is safe and has been approved for use in headache. There is promising evidence that tVNS can improve motor rehabilitation in chronic stroke. This technique may be helpful in aiding language recovery in individuals with chronic aphasia. The current pilot study will primarily assess the feasibility, safety and tolerability of self-directed tVNS paired with computer-based SLT, in individuals with chronic stroke-related aphasia. Secondly, the study aims to explore the effect of the intervention on word-finding ability and to explore potential mechanisms of action. Participants will be randomly allocated to an active or sham tVNS group. Participants will be asked to use the stimulation device at home for 6 weeks, whilst completing computer-based SLT. To date, there are no published studies exploring the use of tVNS in aphasia. An indication of study feasibility may support the development of a larger RCT to explore treatment efficacy.

The aim of our study was to investigate the effect of robot-assisted gait training on quadriceps muscle thickness, balance and gait parameters in individuals with chronic stroke. For these purposes:-Improving gait and balance functions of patients with chronic stroke,-Increasing functional independence in daily life with walking trainings-Increase lower extremity muscle thickness with walking training, To investigate the effects of robot-assisted gait training on quadriceps muscle thickness, balance and gait parameters in individuals with chronic stroke.-It is aimed to contribute to the literature in this field by transforming the results to be obtained as a result of the study into a scientific publication

This project will examine the feasibility, safety and effect of home-based functional electrical stimulation (FES) applied to different lower limb muscles in combination with task-specific training on gait, balance and mobility in adults with chronic stroke. 30 individuals with chronic stroke will first undergo initial screening and baseline walking, mobility, balance and strength assessments in the laboratory. After determining their eligibility for the study, they will undergo 12-weeks of home-based FES and task-specific training. Following the initial screening (week 1) and pre-intervention assessment (week 2), participants will be trained in the lab for 6 sessions (week 3-4) for a FES home program and then given a FES home kit (FES device and an android tablet). Participants will then undergo home-training for 2 weeks (week 5-6) followed by mid-training assessment (week 7). Again, participants will undergo 4-weeks of home training (week 8-11) and final assessment at the end of training (week 12). This project has the following specific aims: Aim 1: To investigate the feasibility, safety and efficacy of 12-weeks of home-based FES and task-specific training in adults with chronic stroke. Aim 2: To examine the effect of 12-weeks of home-based FES and task-specific training on mobility, gait and balance (anticipatory and reactive balance) in adults with chronic stroke.

Upper limb impairment is present in more than 85% of people with stroke, which greatly affect the quality of life, social participation, and performance of daily activities of people with stroke. Previous study also revealed that 53.4% of people after stroke experienced cognitive impairment. Different cognitive domains might be affected following stroke, such as attention, memory, language, and orientation, and the problems with memory are often prominent. Yet, there is no effective treatment for the post-stroke cognitive impairment. Transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) and transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) are simple and non-invasive treatment to improve upper limb motor function and cognitive function. However, no existing studies have explored on the effects of tSCS and tVNS on cognitive function in people with stroke. Therefore, the purpose of this study is to evaluate the effectiveness of transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) on improving upper limb function and cognitive function in people with chronic stroke.

The objective of this study is to assess the functionality of a sensory stimulation device that uses mechanical vibrations and low-intensity electrical currents to deliver proprioceptive feedback to stroke patients regarding their movements.

This study aims to examine how sensory deficits and weight-bearing asymmetry affect posture, balance, and mobility in individuals with chronic stroke. The research focuses on evaluating the relationships between plantar foot sensation, lower extremity position sense, and asymmetrical weight distribution with functional abilities such as walking and postural control. Participants will undergo non-invasive assessments, including sensation tests, mobility and balance evaluations, and postural measurements. A total of 24 individuals with chronic stroke who are receiving physiotherapy at a rehabilitation center in Konya, Türkiye, will be included. The results of this observational, cross-sectional study may contribute to a better understanding of the sensory-motor interactions in stroke survivors and support the development of more targeted rehabilitation strategies.

The purpose of our study is to evaluate Vibrotactile Coordinated Reset stimulation (vCR) and its effects on motor ability within stroke patients. vCR will be administered with a device called the Vibrotactile (VT) Brain Glove. vCR is expected to provide patients with a non-invasive therapy to aid in recovery from a stroke. This study will include a dedicated sham arm that will aid in understanding true treatment effects from vCR.

Stroke commonly results in persistent leg impairments that limit mobility and reduce quality of life. This study investigates whether combining low-intensity resistance training with blood flow restriction (LIRT-BFR) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) can effectively improve leg function in stroke survivors. Participants with chronic stroke will be randomly assigned to one of four intervention groups: 1) LIRT with simulated BFR and simulated TENS; 2) LIRT with actual BFR and simulated TENS; 3) LIRT with simulated BFR and actual TENS; 4) LIRT with both actual BFR and actual TENS. The resistance training utilizes 20% of each participant's maximum lifting capacity. For blood flow restriction, an automated pressure cuff (SmartCuffs 4.0) will be placed on the upper portion of the affected leg, inflated to 50% of the individual's occlusion pressure during exercises and deflated during rest periods. TENS therapy delivers controlled electrical impulses through electrodes positioned on the anterior thigh. Each 60-minute session includes a 10-minute warm-up followed by 40 minutes of targeted resistance exercises (leg extensions, leg presses, and weight-bearing squats) and concludes with 10 minutes of stationary cycling. The resistance protocol involves 3 sets of 20 repetitions with standardized rest intervals between sets and exercises. Participants will attend three sessions weekly for six weeks. Assessments will be conducted at baseline, midpoint (3 weeks), completion (6 weeks), and follow-up (1 month post-intervention). The primary outcome measure is the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Lower Extremity function, with secondary measures including muscle strength, stiffness, balance, mobility, walking capacity, and gait parameters. To understand the underlying mechanisms, we will measure muscle oxygenation using near-infrared spectroscopy, evaluate muscle structure via ultrasound, and monitor physiological responses including heart rate variability and perceived exertion for safety monitoring.

Stroke is a leading cause of upper extremity deficits worldwide. Persistent upper extremity dysfunction affects many post stroke patients and is strongly associated with decreased activities of daily living and poor quality of life. There is accumulating evidence of a cross-over effect with training of one limb that slightly increase strength and coordination in contralateral untrained limb through neurological adaptations. One of rehabilitation that is beneficial for stroke patient is motor imagery, a mental rehearsal of a movement that does not include physical movement has been shown to enhance upper limb function. Evidence demonstrate that MI not only activates motor cortical and subcortical regions but also induces plastic change in motor networks and modulates synaptic activity at spinal level.

Pilot study on the physiological response of robotic rehabilitation therapy for improving the performance of activities of daily living of stroke patients

The functional recovery of the upper limb represents a critical element in post-stroke rehabilitation; hemiplegic/hemiparetic patients who achieve optimal recovery are a minority, and incomplete recovery has relevant consequences both on functioning and on quality of life of those who survive a stroke. The project aims to assess the effects on the functional recovery, with manual dexterity as the primary outcome, of a treatment protocol using an innovative tool (Gloreha Sinfonia) that enables assisted execution of three-dimensional tasks combined with Serious Games for cognitive stimulation, targeting the functional recovery of the upper limb in patients with stroke outcomes at least 6 months after the acute event (chronic phase). Patients with residual dysfunction of the upper limb, at least 6 months after the stroke, will be randomly assigned to the Robotic Rehabilitation group (ROBOT), the Occupational Therapy group (OT), focused on the use of the upper limb in functional tasks (task-oriented training), or the control group (CT - prescription of a home exercise program). Patients in the ROBOT and OT groups will undergo a total treatment period of 5 weeks, with 3 sessions per week lasting 1 hour, for a total of 15 sessions/hours of treatment. Patients assigned to the CT group will undergo an initial functional assessment required for defining the exercise program. All patients will be evaluated at baseline (T0), at a 5-week interval (T1), and 6 months after the end of treatment (T2). Outcome indicators include measures of manual dexterity/upper limb performance, anxiety/depression, cognitive abilities, and patient-perceived outcomes. The analysis of Surface Plasmon Resonance imaging (SPRi) of serum exosome content, detected at T0, T1, and T2, will be correlated with variations in functional measures to verify the hypothesis that induction of neuroplasticity underlies any observed changes. Short- and medium-term effects on functional, psychological outcomes, as well as indicators of neuroinflammation and neural regeneration from serum analysis using innovative SPRi, will be compared among the 3 groups.

The goal of this RCT is to investigate if computerized script training may promote functional communication and nonverbal cognitive functions of Cantonese-speaking PWA, and whether VR may further magnify the treatment outcomes. The main research questions are: 1. Can script training promote verbal functional communication of Cantonese-speaking PWA? 2. Can script training enhance nonverbal cognitive functions of Cantonese-speaking PWA? 3. Can VR magnify verbal and nonverbal treatment outcomes of script training of PWA?

This study will determine the acceptability of delivering seated exercises online and if seated exercises can improve balance, mobility, quality of life, and cardiometabolic health in those living with a stroke related mobility impairment. Participants will be allocated to either a 10-week seated exercise program or a delayed 2-week Boot Camp program. All seated exercises sessions and assessments will be conducted virtually.