NCT03401762 · Northwestern University
Wearable MCI to Reduce Muscle Co-activation in Acute and Chronic Stroke
What this study is about
The purpose of the study is to explore the feasibility of using a wearable device, called a myoelectric-computer interface (MCI), to improve treatment group$1 movement in people who have had a stroke. Impaired treatment group$1 movement after stroke is caused not just by weakness, but also by impaired coordination between joints due to abnormal co-activation of muscles.
View original scientific description
The purpose of the study is to explore the feasibility of using a wearable device, called a myoelectric-computer interface (MCI), to improve arm movement in people who have had a stroke. Impaired arm movement after stroke is caused not just by weakness, but also by impaired coordination between joints due to abnormal co-activation of muscles. These abnormal co-activation patterns are thought to be due to abnormal movement planning.The MCI aims to reduce abnormal co-activation by providing feedback about individual muscle activations. This randomized, controlled, blinded study will test the home use of an MCI in chronic and acute stroke survivors.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
MCI
EMG-controlled game
BEHAVIORAL
Sham MCI
Sham control game
Primary outcome measures
Wolf Motor Function Test
Time frame: baseline to 6 weeks
Timed
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
- Chronic stroke participants
- Hemiparesis from first ever stroke at least 6 months prior to screening
- Severe motor impairment (FMA of 7-30)
- At least some voluntary shoulder and elbow muscle activation. Acute stroke participants
- Hemiparesis from first ever stroke within the past 21 days
- Severe motor impairment (FMA of 3-20), or total Manual Motor Score of 1-8 combined in Shoulder Abduction and Finger Extensors
Exclusion criteria
- Cognitive impairment with at least moderately impaired attention, or unable to follow instructions of the MCI task
- Visual impairment (such as hemianopia) preventing full view of the screen
- Anesthesia or neglect in the affected arm, or visual hemineglect (score of 2 on the NIH Stroke Scale Extinction and Inattention subtest).
- Participation in another study on the affected arm within 6 weeks of enrollment or any pharmacological study
- Inability to understand or follow commands in English due to aphasia or other reason
- Diffuse or multifocal infarcts
- Substantial arm pain preventing participation for 90 minutes a day
- New spasticity treatment (pharmacological or Botox)
Where
- Chicago, Illinois
Collaborators
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab, National Institutes of Health (NIH)
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 Apr 8, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations