EMG Training for Altering Activation Patterns After Stroke

Study Overview
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Brief Summary
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Evaluation of a new EMG controlled game to improve hand function in chronic stroke survivors.

Detailed Description
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Increased impairment of the hand is commonly reported as an outcome occurring after a stroke. This impairment is due mainly to the decreased ability to modulate appropriate muscle activation patterns. Issues with appropriately modifying activation patterns can profoundly affect tasks of daily living. This study is evaluating a novel software focusing on retraining hand muscle activation patterns through an Electromyographic (EMG) controlled game. Stroke survivors with chronic, severe hemiparesis of the hand will participate in a longitudinal study consisting of 3 weeks of training. We hypothesize that stroke survivors will experience a decrease in time to complete a test of EMG control, as well as improvement in hand motor control.

Official Title
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Altering Activation Patterns With EMG Training in the Distal Upper Extremity After Stroke

Conditions
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Stroke, Weakness, Muscle, Coordination Lack

Intervention / Treatment
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* Other: Bilateral
* Other: Unilateral


Participation Criteria
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Eligibility Criteria
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Inclusion Criteria: Single, unilateral stroke at least 6 months prior to enrollment Moderate hand impairment defined by Stage 4 or Stage 5 on the Chedoke McMaster Stroke Assessment Scale Exclusion Criteria: Visual neglect or deficits (with inability to compensate) Upper extremity orthopedic conditions that interfere with movement Cerebellar stroke Children, prisoners, or adult unable to provide consent will not be recruited. As the procedures pose no increased risk for pregnant women, we will not specifically exclude them.

Ages Eligible for Study
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Minimum Age: 18 Years
Maximum Age: 80 Years

Sexes Eligible for Study
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All

Accepts Healthy Volunteers
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No

Study Plan
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How is the study designed?
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Design Details

Primary Purpose: Treatment
Allocation: Randomized
Intervention Model: Parallel Assignment
Masking: Single


Arms and Interventions

| Participant Group/Arm | Intervention/Treatment |
| --- | --- |
| Experimental: Bilateral<br>Participants will control game using EMG from both upper limbs. | Other: Bilateral<br>* Participants will control game using EMG from both upper limbs.<br>|
| Active Comparator: Unilateral<br>Participants will control game using the more impaired upper limb. | Other: Unilateral<br>* Participants will control game using EMG from the more impaired upper limb.<br>|

What is the study measuring?
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Primary Outcome Measures

| Outcome Measure | Measure Description | Time Frame |
| --- | --- | --- |
| Change in mean completion time for timed test | Time to complete movement to 16 randomized targets | Baseline and 3 weeks (immediately post intervention) | 

 Terms related to the study
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Keywords Provided by Centre Hospitalier Valida
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hand, stroke, therapy, rehabilitation