Study of Error-Enhanced Motor Learning and Recovery Using Robotic Arm Exercises in Adults After Stroke

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are studying how errors made by stroke survivors during upper arm reaching exercises can lead to improved movement abilities. The focus is on participants who have experienced a stroke affecting the primary motor cortex and have hemiparesis with some shoulder and elbow movement. The study aims to develop a personalized exercise program based on individual error patterns to enhance motor recovery using a new learning model that explores error as a key factor in neurorehabilitation. Participants will use specialized lab equipment including a robotic arm with a forearm attachment, a virtual reality display system, and a fitness tracking wristwatch. The study involves an initial screening and baseline evaluation, followed by six treatment visits over two weeks where participants perform reaching exercises with or without error fields enabled on the robotic arm. After treatment, participants complete post-evaluations and a follow-up evaluation about 5-6 weeks later to assess changes. Throughout the study, participants will undergo assessments measuring their reaching errors and arm function, including the Perpendicular Error test and the Action Research Arm Test. Researchers will monitor progress using robotic measurements and fitness trackers during treatment. The total participation spans about nine weeks, including screening, treatment, and follow-up periods to evaluate the impact of the exercise program on motor performance after stroke.

Error-enhanced Learning & Recovery in 2 & 3 Dimensions