Motor learning can be affected by the sensory difficulties that may be experienced as a result of a stroke. This study will help us better understand what kinds of sensory information can help with the re-learning of grasping with the affected hand despite the sensory difficulties produced by the stroke.
The purpose of this study is to develop, refine and test the 'alternate hand training strategy' to facilitate adaptation, repetition and relearning to restore hand function after stroke. The three aims are: to restore adaptation (Aim 1), facilitate grasp efficiency and normal directional biases during repetition (Aim 2), and enhance the rate of learning to improve hand function and quality of life post stroke (Aim 3). Hypotheses: We hypothesize that alternate hand training will increase the rate of learning and lead to greater improvement in hand function. The results will inform dosing of therapy for optimal relearning.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
NONE
Enrollment
91
Participants will receive a training intervention with either the Alternate Hand Training Strategy, or Affected Hand Training alone.
New York University School of Medicine
New York, New York, United States
For Phase 1: Adaptation of fingertip forces and movements during grasping.
5 experiments will be performed over 7 visits to examine the best approach to retrain adaptation.
Time frame: 6 weeks
For Phase 2: Change in Hand function
Subjects will be randomized to Alternate Hand Training or Affected Hand Training arms and receive training twice a week for 6 weeks.
Time frame: 6 weeks
Phase 2 - Maintenance of hand function
Recovery of hand function will be measured by repeating the pre-intervention clinical and grasping assessments 6-weeks after the end of training.
Time frame: 6 weeks after end of training
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