NCT04897347 · Teachers College, Columbia University
Robotic TruST-Postural Intervention for Children With Cerebral Palsy
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to test the effectiveness of a motor learning-based postural and reaching control intervention delivered with the robotic Trunk-Support-Trainer (TruST) compared to the same motor learning-based intervention delivered with Static Trunk Support Equipment in children with cerebral palsy (CP) classified as III and IV with the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS).
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to test the efficacy of a motor learning-based postural and reaching control intervention delivered with the robotic Trunk-Support-Trainer (TruST) compared to the same motor learning-based intervention delivered with Static Trunk Support Equipment in children with cerebral palsy (CP) classified as III and IV with the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS).
Interventions
DEVICE
Robotic Trunk-Support-Trainer (TruST)
This will involve tailoring the level of postural assistance via force fields and systematically introduce postural task-progression across training sessions. Age-appropriate activities, including toys and games, will be used in training. \- Twelve 2hr training sessions (3 times per week for 4 weeks)
DEVICE
Static Trunk Support
This will involve static support for the trunk via a trained therapist. Age-appropriate activities, including toys and games, will be used in training. \- Twelve 2hr training sessions (3 times per week for 4 weeks)
Primary outcome measures
Change in Modified Functional Reach Test (mFRT) after intervention
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 4 months
The mFRT measures proactive postural control during maximum reaching distance. It is a valid and reliable tool in CP; and it discriminates GMFCS levels.
Change in Postural Star-Sitting Test (PSST) after intervention
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 4 months
The PSST will be performed before and after interventions to monitor sitting control progression in both TruST- and control-intervention groups. The investigators have several motivations that rationalize this customized measurement. It: 1) is age-appropriate, 2) is goal-oriented, 3) directly measures sitting based on trunk control improvements, 4) is responsive to capture sitting workspace area increases, and 5) offers data with a straightforward functional interpretation.
Change in Box and Blocks Test (BBT) after intervention
Time frame: Through study completion, an average of 4 months
The BBT examines manual dexterity. The child moves the maximum number of blocks (2.5cm2), one at a time, between the compartments of a partitioned box within 60s. B\&B is sensitive to post-intervention changes with the more- and less-affected hand. Arm displacement and grasping will be analyzed with Datavyu. An instruction manual has been created to standardize video-coding procedures and define the reaching variables. Grasping will be defined from the moment the hand contacts the block to the time this is lifted from the surface. Arm displacement will be defined from end of grasping to block release. Reaching performance will be the summation of grasping and arm displacement. Two coders will be used to determine video-coding reliability.
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
- Age 6-17 years
- Diagnosis of Bilateral CP: diplegia, triplegia, or quadriplegia
- Gross Motor Function Classification Systems-Expanded \& Review (GMFCS) levels III or IV
- Ability to sit 5s with trunk support between mid-ribs and pelvis (SATCo = 3-7)
- Cognitive capacity to follow basic verbal instructions (i.e., "do not put your hands on your lap" or "follow and reach the toy")
Exclusion criteria
- Absent head control (SATCo = 1)
- Current medical illness unrelated to CP at the time of the study
- Severe dyskinesia that prevents the child from maintaining sitting and recovering balance during reaching movements
- History of recurrent seizures (daily) or drug-resistance epilepsy
- Severe Spinal Deformities: scoliosis \>40◦ and/or kyphosis \>45◦
- Spinal osteosynthesis or orthopedic surgery of spine, upper or lower extremities in the last 6 months
- Severe spasticity of biceps/triceps in both upper extremities (Modified Ashworth Scale = 4)
- Local chemodenervation therapy in spastic muscles (e.g., botulinum toxin or phenol injections) in upper or lower extremities in the previous 3 months or planned during the study
- Other major surgeries in the previous 6 months (if medically contraindicated)
Where
- New York, New York
Collaborators
Columbia University
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 Dec 22, 2023 · Source of record for eligibility and locations