Study of Glide Versus Direct Control in Upper Limb Prostheses for Adults with Trans-Radial Amputation

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the Glide control strategy for upper limb prostheses in people with trans-radial unilateral limb loss. The study compares Glide, an experimental myoelectric control system using multiple EMG inputs, with the standard Direct Control DC prosthesis method. The goal is to assess whether Glide improves functional performance, satisfaction, and prosthesis usage over standard care in a clinical setting and during daily activities. Participants will use a single prosthesis system equipped to operate in both DC and Glide modes. The study follows a multiple baseline AB design over 24 weeks, where the A phase involves using the DC prosthesis for 10, 12, or 14 weeks, followed by the B phase using the Glide prosthesis for the remaining weeks. Prostheses are customized and fitted through multiple clinic visits, including occupational therapy training. Control modes are switched via an iPad app without hardware changes. Participants will attend several clinic visits for fitting, training, and assessments, completing questionnaires and functional tests such as CAPROQ, CAPPFUL, tBBT, FIT, DASH, and SAM at baseline, midpoints, crossover, and endpoint. Usage data like movement bouts and wear duration are recorded daily. The study includes weekly and periodic evaluations over the 24-week period, after which participants are refitted with their original prosthesis and receive further occupational therapy as needed.

Regulatory Clearance of the Glide Control Strategy for Upper Limb Prostheses