NCT07649135 · University of Minnesota
Feasibility of a Remotely Delivered Step Count Intervention in Chronic Stroke
(PA-ChatS)
What this study is about
The goal of this study is to explore the feasibility of a new approach to rehabilitation that focuses on step count. Participants will complete 6 telephone or Zoom-based sessions with an occupational therapist over 6 weeks and use a step count tracker during that time.
View original scientific description
The goal of this study is to explore the feasibility of a new approach to rehabilitation that focuses on step count. Participants will complete 6 telephone or Zoom-based sessions with an occupational therapist over 6 weeks and use a step count tracker during that time. They will also complete questionnaires, assessments, surveys, and physical activity measurements during study weeks 0 (baseline), 3 (mid-point), 7 (post-intervention) and 12 (follow-up).
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Physical Activity Chats after Stroke (PA-ChatS)
PA-ChatS consists of (1) self-monitoring step count using a pedometer, and (2) behavioral activation for stepping activity delivered via the telephone or Zoom and guided by the PA-ChatS workbook. Participants will receive education regarding physical activity after stroke, American Heart Association guidelines for post-stroke physical activity levels, and an overview of the intervention activities. They will then use a pedometer to monitor average daily step counts, set new step count goals (increasing by 5 to 10% of the daily average step count from the prior week), and create a specific plan for achieving the new step count goal. The interventionist will collaboratively problem solve with the participant to identify strategies to overcome barriers to stepping activity and maintain safety.
Primary outcome measures
Adherence to step count
Time frame: Week 7
The activPAL micro4 (24/7 wear protocol) will used to measure step count. The proportion of participants achieving 7500 or more steps per day will be reported.
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
- Stroke diagnosis confirmed by imaging
- Stroke occurred 6 or more months before study enrollment
- Meet criteria for "inactive" on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire-Short Form
- Able to identify a support person that they interact with in-person at least once per week
- Able and willing to participate fully in the study and provide informed consent or proxy consent with participant assent
Exclusion criteria
- Currently receiving care in a transitional care unit, skilled nursing facility, or other institutional care setting
- Currently receiving outpatient neurorehabilitation services (e.g., physical therapy, occupational therapy, speech therapy)
- Severe cognitive or communication impairments (inability to respond accurately to complete study screening questions or to provide informed consent or assent)
- Currently pregnant or expecting to become pregnant in the next 8 weeks Comorbid neurological disorder (Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, myasthenia gravis, dementia, Alzheimer's disease, Huntington's disease, glioblastoma, spinal cord injury, cerebral palsy)
- Comorbid cancer, currently undergoing chemotherapy or radiation treatment
- Received inpatient treatment or was hospitalized for a psychiatric condition and/or alcohol or substance abuse within the past 12 months
- Current diagnosis of a terminal illness and/or currently receiving hospice care
- History of allergic reaction to adhesives that precludes the use of an adhesive necessary for adherence to activPAL measurement
- Uses wheelchair as primary mobility aid outside of home setting
- Inability to speak, read, or understand English
- Concurrent participation in another rehabilitation intervention research study
- Resides more than 50 miles outside of the Twin Cities, Minnesota metropolitan area
- Investigator discretion for safety or adherence reasons
Where
- Minneapolis, Minnesota
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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 Jul 10, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations