Upper Limb Motor Defects - Cleveland FES Center

Exoskeleton Research: Myoelectric orthosis for rehab of severe chronic arm motor deficits

A randomized controlled study investigating the efficacy of a myoelectric device combined with motor-learning therapy to improve arm function in chronic (>6 months) stroke survivors.

MyoPro use illustration. Top figure: the appropriate user’s muscle electromyography (EMG) signals control the two motors on MyoPro; one for elbow flexion and extension and a second for hand opening and closing. Lower figure, left: task practice without the device does not achieve a coordinated movement. Lower right, In the device, the user is able to produce the desired movement.

About this study

This study will evaluate the effects of combining motor learning-based therapy with use of the MyoPro, a wearable exoskeletal myoelectrically controlled orthotic device. MyoPro uses electromyographic (EMG) signals from the weak muscles to assist movement of the user’s affected arm. The primary objective of this randomized controlled trial is to study the efficacy of using MyoPro in motor learning-based therapy for individuals with chronic stroke (>6 months post) with severe upper limb motor deficits compared with a similar dose of motor learning-based therapy alone.

Study Information

Study participants are randomized into one of 2 groups: motor-learning only, or motor-learning plus MyoPro. All participants receive 9 weeks of in-clinic therapy (2 days/week) followed by 9 weeks of home practice with weekly check-in sessions with a physical therapist. Participants randomized to the motor-learning plus MyoPro group will receive a custom-fit MyoPro to use for the study duration. All participants will be assigned a personalized home exercise program. Measurements of the participants’ arm function are recorded before, during, and after active study participation. Changes in brain function will be evaluated for both groups to assess what additional benefit the MyoPro may provide in recovery of arm function.

ClinicalTrials.gov link: https://clinicaltrials.gov/study/NCT05296408

Principal Investigator: Svetlana Pundik, MD, MSc
Program Contact: Jessica McCabe, DPT
Contact Number: (216) 791-3800 ext. 63830
Contact Email: Jessica.McCabe@va.gov

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