NCT04286516 · VA Office of Research and Development
Brain Connections for Arm Movement After Stroke
(CAM)
What this study is about
The purpose of this study is to use Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) while subjects are making reaching movements in a robotic treatment group$1 device in order to discover how different brain areas control movement before and after stroke and when these brain areas are most sensitive to TMS.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this study is to use Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) while subjects are making reaching movements in a robotic arm device in order to discover how different brain areas control movement before and after stroke and when these brain areas are most sensitive to TMS.
Interventions
DEVICE
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
Paired pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation
Primary outcome measures
Path length
Time frame: Immediate (within 2 s after stimulation)
Movement path length in centimeters from KINARM system during the one second reaching period. (units: cm)
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
- Be 45-90 years of age
- Have adequate language and neurocognitive function to participate in training and testing
- Be medically stable to participate in the study
- Be English speaking Inclusion Criteria (participants with stroke):
- Be 45-90 years of age
- Clinically defined, unilateral, hemiparetic stroke with radiologic
Exclusion criteria
- of other possible diagnosis
- Stroke onset at least 6 months before enrollment
- Subcortical stroke (ex: internal capsule, deep white matter of posterior frontal lobe)
- Present with mild to moderate arm dysfunction
- Be medically stable to participate in the study
- Be English speaking Exclusion Criteria: (for both groups)
- Unable to give informed consent
- Have a serious complicating medical illness that would preclude participation
- Contractures or orthopedic problems limiting range of joint motion in the potential study arm or other impairments that would interfere with the study activities
- Visual loss such that the subject would not be able to see the test patterns on the robot computer monitor
- Unable to comply with requirements of the study
- Enrollment in another greater-than-minimal risk study
- Presence of medical condition or implant that prevents safe administration of TMS or MRI
Where
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania
Collaborators
VA Pittsburgh Healthcare System, University of Pittsburgh
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 2, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations