NCT07342348 · Grand Valley State University
Using Power Mobility Training to Promote Arm & Hand Function in Children With Cerebral Palsy
What this study is about
Approximately 40% of children with ambulatory cerebral palsy have significant functional asymmetries in treatment group$1 and hand function. Children with these significant functional asymmetries have difficulties using their more-affected (less preferred) treatment group$1 and hand in daily activities, especially true in daily activities requiring bilateral hand and treatment group$1 use.
View original scientific description
Approximately 40% of children with ambulatory cerebral palsy have significant functional asymmetries in arm and hand function. Children with these significant functional asymmetries have difficulties using their more-affected (less preferred) arm and hand in daily activities, especially true in daily activities requiring bilateral hand and arm use. Recent research suggests that power mobility training provided via a ride-on toy may help to motivate these children to use their less preferred arm and hand. This research further notes that participation in power mobility training designed to encourage a child to use their less preferred arm and hand also may help to improve their arm and hand function and use in their daily activities. This exploratory study seeks to explore an innovative intervention using arm- and hand-use focused power mobility training activities, encompassing both navigational/maneuvering activities and embedded play-based reaching and grasping activities. During power mobility training activities, children will be asked to wear a soft mitten or sock on their preferred hand to help them remember to use their less preferred hand and arm. The purpose of this exploratory study is to examine both the effect and feasibility of a 6-week laboratory-based arm-and hand-use focused power mobility training program.
Interventions
OTHER
Arm- and hand-use focused power mobility training
These arm- and hand-use focused power mobility training activities will encompass both navigational/maneuvering activities and play-based reaching and grasping activities embedded into the navigational/maneuvering activities. During power mobility training activities, children will be asked to wear a soft mitten or sock on their preferred hand to help them remember to use their less preferred hand and arm.
Primary outcome measures
Canadian Occupational Performance Measure
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 6 weeks
The Canadian Occupational Performance Measure rates parent/caregiver perceptions of their child's performance of 5 arm and hand skills. Each skill is rated from a minimum of 1 to a maximum of 10. A higher score indicates a better outcome. The total score on all 5 items ranges from a minimum of 5 to a maximum of 50. A higher score indicates a better outcome.
ABILHAND-Kids-CP Questionnaire
Time frame: From enrollment to the end of treatment at 6 weeks
The ABILHAND measures parents' perceptions of their child's manual ability and provides a comprehensive evaluation of the child's functional arm and hand ability. Parents estimate their child's ease or difficulty in performing 17 activities. Each activity is rated using a 3-point Likery scale as follows: 'Impossible=0, Difficult=1, Easy=2. Higher scores indicate a better outcome.
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Diagnosis of cerebral palsy
- Demonstrates significantly less functional use of one arm and hand
- Can get on and off the a ride-on toy with minimal assistance from the researchers
- Can maintain a sitting position on the a ride-on toy
- Has sufficient functional vision to safely maneuver the a ride-on toy
- Has their own bicycle helmet that fits them well and is in good working condition
Exclusion criteria
- Hand or arm surgery within the past 6 months
- Their weight exceeds device limits (more than 120 pounds)
- They do not demonstrate sufficient balance and control in sitting to safely use the ride-on toy
- If they cannot safely participate in arm- and hand-use focused power mobility training activities.
Where
- Grand Rapids, Michigan
Related conditions & keywords
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Jan 15, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations