NCT06605014 · University of California, Davis
Somatic Dysfunction in Patients With Acute Cerebrovascular Disease
(SOMADC-AC)
What this study is about
The goals of this observational study are to test the reliability of a new, standardized physical examination method to identify motion problems within joints or groups of joints among adult asymptomatic volunteers and in patients hospitalized with stroke or stroke-like episodes (e.g., transient ischemic attack, TIA).
View original scientific description
The goals of this observational study are to test the reliability of a new, standardized physical examination method to identify motion problems within joints or groups of joints among adult asymptomatic volunteers and in patients hospitalized with stroke or stroke-like episodes (e.g., transient ischemic attack, TIA). The main questions this investigation aims to answer are: * Can different, independent providers reliability quantify motion pattern problems using a systematic approach called, The Functional Pathology of the Musculoskeletal System (FPMSS) model? * Are there differences in joint(s) motion patterns among asymptomatic volunteers, patients with TIA (people with brain disease without new neurologic disability), and recent ischemic stroke (patients with new stroke-related-disability, e.g., paralysis)? * Is there an association between joint(s) motion impairment severity and stroke survivor outcomes? Participants (asymptomatic and those with stroke) will undergo a set of repeated paired, musculoskeletal physical exams by independent providers blinded to each other's assessments and patient information. Researchers will compare the severity, location, and quantity of joint(s) motion impairment between these three groups with the physical examination methodology (FPMSS). Clinical information (e.g., test results, diagnoses, brain imaging, medical history) will be collected from patients admitted for TIA and stroke. Enrolled participants with recent stroke will complete a survey three months after hospitalization to determine their self-perceived quality-of-life.
Primary outcome measures
Examiner Rater-Reliability
Time frame: 3 to 14 days
Test intra- and inter-rater reliability in identifying osteopathic somatic dysfunction (joint(s) motion impairment) among asymptomatic volunteers, patients with TIA, and recently admitted patients with stroke.
Functional Pathology of the Musculoskeletal System
Time frame: 3-14 days
A total of 80 specific musculoskeletal examination tests are performed assessing the amount of available motion in the spine, upper extremities, lower extremities, and pelvis. Navigational Motions (i.e., whole upper limb motion at shoulder) are scored on a scale of 1-4 with one representing the least loss of motion and 4 representing the most and Component Motions (i.e., motion of foot at ankle) scored on a scale of 0-3 with 0 representing "normal motion" and 3 representing "no motion".
National Institutes of Health Neuro-Quality of Life (QoL) survey
Time frame: 90 days
Quantify self-reported health-related quality-of-life (QoL) 90 days after ischemic stroke. Patient response domain scores have a normative distribution and are compared against general population means (50, with a standard deviation of 10; range 10-90). Interpreting value responses above or below means are based on the specific questions - i.e., higher scores do not uniformly reflect improvement while lower scores do not necessarily reflect poorer status. Patient will receive a digitally distributed survey inquiring about QoL domains surrounding mobility, satisfaction with and ability to participate in social roles, mood, fatigue, anxiety, cognition.
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
- adults ≥18 years Admission diagnosis:
- ischemic stroke OR
- transient ischemic attack (TIA). A prior history of TIA but without stroke may be enrolled.
- Neurologic stability or lack of significant deterioration (i.e. ∆ NIHSS\<4) for at least 24 hours (defined by clinical documentation and/or communication with provider team(s)) in stroke subjects
- Able to sit upright, lie supine, and when able lateral recumbent left/right positions with assist independently or with minimal person assist
- Anticipated length of stay greater \> or = 2 days for ischemic stroke. TIA patients average length of stay is \< 2 days, and can be enrolled in the study.
Exclusion criteria
- Acute skeletal fracture or known dislocation; history of pathologic (osteoporotic or neoplastic) skeletal fracture of thoracic cage, hip/pelvis/sacrum, or vertebral column
- Prior history of ICH, ischemic stroke, confirmed by imaging and/or clinical evaluation. Patients with imaging showing "chronic stroke" who have never received a diagnosis of stroke and/or have not been previously symptomatic may still be enrolled, based on the Investigator's clinical judgement.
- Spinal column support brace (e.g. cervical collar)
- Anticipated neurosurgical intervention during hospitalization: decompressive hemicraniectomy, hematoma evacuation (defined by clinical documentation and/or communication with provider team(s))
- Current endotracheal intubation (\*note: extubated patients can be evaluated for eligibility)
- History of spinal cord injury with residual neuromuscular or sensory disability
- History of recent trauma within the past 30 days
- Known ligament, musculotendinous, or bone lesion
- Clinical condition that would interfere with execution of movement or palpatory diagnostic testing, e.g. chronic pain
- History of spinal surgery
Where
- Sacramento, California
Collaborators
American Osteopathic Association
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 Sep 26, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations