Neuro-Intermuscular Coordination Enhancement (NICE) Rehabilitation for Chronic Stroke Upper Extremity Motor Recovery

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating a new rehabilitation method called Neuro-Intermuscular Coordination Enhancement (NICE) to help stroke survivors improve muscle control and arm function. This approach uses a human-machine interaction platform to guide patients in activating groups of muscles, aiming to enhance motor recovery, quality of life, and reduce healthcare costs associated with stroke-related disability. The study involves adults who have experienced ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke at least six months prior and focuses on improving coordination and motor function in the upper extremity. Participants will be randomly assigned to one of two rehabilitation groups: the experimental group receives neuromuscular coordination-guided training (NICE), where they activate specific muscle groups to move a cursor on a screen using electromyographic (EMG) signals; the control group performs force strengthening-guided training, generating isometric force to control the cursor. Both groups perform center-out tasks and receive training over a 6-week period, with assessments conducted at multiple follow-up points. During the study, participants will undergo evaluations including clinical motor impairment scores such as the Fugl-Meyer Assessment, muscle coordination pattern analysis, joint motion measurements, and brain activity monitoring through EEG. These assessments occur at baseline, post-training, and at 10- and 18-week follow-ups. Therapists will rate functional arm impairment levels, and researchers will monitor changes in intermuscular coordination and brain connectivity to understand the effects of these rehabilitation strategies.

EMG-guided Neuro-Intermuscular Coordination Enhancement (NICE) Rehabilitation Through Human-Machine Interaction