NCT07661849 · University of Texas, El Paso
Efficacy of Tele-CPASS Compared to In-person CPASS Therapy for Upper Extremity Motor Recovery
What this study is about
This study evaluates whether a home-based telerehabilitation program (tele-CPASS) is as effective as an in-person rehabilitation program (CPASS) for improving treatment group$1 and hand function after stroke. Stroke often leads to long-term difficulty using the affected treatment group$1 in daily activities, and access to in-person therapy can be limited.
View original scientific description
This study evaluates whether a home-based telerehabilitation program (tele-CPASS) is as effective as an in-person rehabilitation program (CPASS) for improving arm and hand function after stroke. Stroke often leads to long-term difficulty using the affected arm in daily activities, and access to in-person therapy can be limited. This study aims to determine whether therapy delivered remotely can provide similar benefits to standard in-clinic care. Participants who recently experienced a stroke will be randomly assigned to receive 20 hours of upper extremity rehabilitation therapy either in person or through a telehealth platform. Both groups will receive the same type and amount of therapy focused on practicing meaningful, patient-selected daily activities. Participants will complete assessments before treatment, immediately after treatment, and at 6 and 12 months to measure recovery of arm function, real-world arm use, and participation in daily life. The results of this study will help determine whether telerehabilitation can improve access to effective stroke recovery interventions while maintaining clinical effectiveness comparable to in-person therapy.
Interventions
BEHAVIORAL
Tele-CPASS
Intervention 1: Tele-CPASS Tele-CPASS is a home-based telerehabilitation intervention consisting of 20 hours of therapist-guided, task-specific upper extremity motor training delivered remotely using a telehealth platform for individuals with stroke. Therapy is individualized based on participant-selected functional goals and focuses on repetitive practice of meaningful daily activities to improve arm and hand function after stroke. Participants complete sessions in their home environment with real-time therapist guidance and may be provided with equipment and technology needed to support remote delivery.
BEHAVIORAL
In-person CPASS therapy
Intervention 2: In-person CPASS therapy In-person CPASS is a clinic-based rehabilitation intervention consisting of 20 hours of therapist-guided, task-specific upper extremity motor training delivered face-to-face. Therapy is individualized based on participant-selected functional goals and focuses on repetitive practice of meaningful daily activities to improve arm and hand function after stroke. Sessions are conducted in a clinical setting under direct supervision of a therapist.
Primary outcome measures
Upper Extremity Motor Function (Action Research Arm Test [ARAT])
Time frame: Baseline, 3 months, 6 months, and 12 months
The Action Research Arm Test (ARAT) is a standardized, performance-based measure of upper extremity motor function. It assesses grasp, grip, pinch, and gross movement using a series of functional tasks. Scores range from 0 to 57, with higher scores indicating better motor function.
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 21 years or older
- Neuroimaging-confirmed stroke within 40 days prior to enrollment
- Persistent hemiparesis resulting in impaired upper extremity function, defined by a score of 0 to 3 on the NIH Stroke Scale motor arm item
- Able to participate in all study-related activities, including 1-year follow-up
- Short Blessed Memory Orientation and Concentration Scale score less than 8
- Able to follow 2-step commands
- Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score greater than 25
- No upper extremity injury or condition that limited upper extremity use prior to the stroke
Exclusion criteria
- Inability to provide informed consent
- Persistent disabling neurologic condition, such as multiple sclerosis, Parkinsonism, amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, or dementia requiring medication
- Clinically significant fluctuations in mental status within 72 hours prior to randomization
- Active psychosis, psychosis within the prior 2 years, active substance abuse, or prior substance abuse
- Dense sensory loss, defined by a score of 3 or 4 on the NIH Stroke Scale sensory item
- Ataxia out of proportion to weakness in the affected arm, defined by a score greater than 1 on the NIH Stroke Scale ataxia item
- Not expected to survive 12 months because of other illnesses
- Severe aphasia
- Receipt of botulinum toxin or expectation of receiving botulinum toxin during the study period
Where
- El Paso, Texas
Collaborators
Texas Tech University Health Sciences Center, El Paso, The Catholic University of America
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 Jun 22, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations