NCT06465290 · University of Maryland, Baltimore
Promoting Neuroplastic Changes of Patients With TBI
What this study is about
This project will develop a wearable rehabilitation robot suitable for in-bed acute stage rehabilitation. It involves robot-guided motor relearning, passive and active motor-sensory rehabilitation early in the acute stage post-TBI including patients who are paralyzed with no motor output. The early acute TBI rehabilitation device will be evaluated in this clinical trial.
View original scientific description
This project will develop a wearable rehabilitation robot suitable for in-bed acute stage rehabilitation. It involves robot-guided motor relearning, passive and active motor-sensory rehabilitation early in the acute stage post-TBI including patients who are paralyzed with no motor output. The early acute TBI rehabilitation device will be evaluated in this clinical trial.
Interventions
DEVICE
Motor relearning training with wearable ankle robot
Ankle motor control relearning training under real-time feedback
DEVICE
Passive stretching with wearable ankle robot
Passive stretching under intelligent robotic control
DEVICE
Gamed-based active movement training with wearable ankle robot
Active movement training through movement games with robotic assistance
DEVICE
Passive movement with limited wearable ankle robot
Passive movement in the joint middle range of motion
DEVICE
Active movement training with limited wearable ankle robot
Active movement training without robotic assistance
DEVICE
Ankle/Wrist torque and motion measurement with limited wearable ankle/wrist robot
Ankle/Wrist torque and motion measurement with no real-time feedback
Primary outcome measures
Fugl-Meyer Lower Extremity (FMLE)
Time frame: At the beginning and end of 3-week training, and 1 month after the treatment ends]
The Fugl-Meyer Lower Extremity (FMLE) assessment is a measure of lower extremity (LE) motor and sensory impairments. The FMLE scale ranges from 0 to 34, 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
- Acute first time unilateral hemispheric stroke (hemorrhagic or ischemic stroke, 24 hours after admission to 1 month post-stroke at the start of the proposed treatment)
- Hemiplegia or hemiparesis
- 0≤Manual Muscle Testing (MMT)\<=2
- Ankle impairments including stiff calf muscles and/or inadequate dorsiflexion
Exclusion criteria
- Medically not stable
- Associated acute medical illness that interferes with ability to training and exercise
- No impairment or very mild ankle impairment of ankle
- Severe cardiovascular problems that interfere with ability to perform moderate movement exercises
- Cognitive impairment or aphasia with inability to follow instructions
- Severe pain in legs
- Severe ankle contracture greater than 15° plantar flexion (when pushing ankle to dorsiflexion)
- Pressure ulcer, recent surgical incision or active skin disease with open wounds present below knee
Where
- Baltimore, Maryland
Collaborators
The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
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 Jul 17, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations