Pilot Study of Mobilization and Tactile Stimulation MTS Therapy to Improve Neglect After Stroke in Adults

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are evaluating the use of Mobilization and Tactile Stimulation MTS, a hands-on physical therapy technique, to help adults who have had a stroke and are experiencing unilateral neglect, a condition where they are unaware of one side of their body. This study focuses on stroke survivors aged 18 and over who are more than 20 weeks post-stroke and have signs of neglect. The study aims to better understand how MTS affects neglect using detailed measurements because its effectiveness has not been widely studied. The study includes three phases over approximately ten weeks. First, there is a two-week baseline phase without MTS treatment, followed by a six-week treatment phase where participants receive MTS therapy for 45 to 60 minutes, five days a week. The final two-week phase involves withdrawal of treatment with continued assessments. MTS therapy involves joint movements, massage, touch, compression, and selective joint movement of the affected arm and hand, delivered at home or a convenient hospital setting. Participants will be assessed twice weekly by a research therapist using three tests for neglect the Letter Cancellation Test, the Catherine Bergego Scale, and the Fluff Test. Carers will be trained to perform daily assessments using the Catherine Bergego Scale. After completing the study, participants and carers may take part in interviews to share their experiences. The study includes safety monitoring for risks like arm discomfort, which can be managed by adjusting therapy. Overall, involvement lasts about three months with regular therapy and evaluations.

Somatosensory Stimulation for Unilateral Neglect Post Stroke (SSUN)