Ankle Robotics After Stroke (NCT04594837) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Ankle Robotics After Stroke
United States140 participantsStarted 2020-08-20
Plain-language summary
The randomized study (in Phase II of the U44) compares the efficacy and durability of 9 weeks (18 sessions) of robot-assisted physical therapy (PTR) versus physical therapy (PT) alone on foot drop as assessed by gait biomechanics (ankle angle at initial contact, peak swing ankle angle, number of heel-first strikes - % total steps, gait velocity) and blinded clinician assessment (dorsiflexion active range of motion, ankle muscle strength, assistive device needs).
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Ages 18 and older
* In the subacute phase of stroke recovery (\>6 weeks to \<6 months post-stroke) with residual hemiparesis of the lower extremity that includes symptoms of foot-drop. - or - In the chronic phase of stroke recovery (\>6 months post-stroke) with residual hemiparesis of the lower extremity that includes symptoms of foot-drop.
* Clear indications of hemiparetic gait by clinical observation
Exclusion Criteria:
* Cardiac history of (a) unstable angina, (b) recent (less than 3 months) myocardial infarction, congestive heart failure (NYHA category II); (c) hemodynamically significant valvular dysfunction
* Hypertension that is a contraindication for routine physical therapy (greater than 160/100 on two assessments).
* Medical History: (a) recent hospitalization (less than 3 months) for severe medical disease, (b) symptomatic peripheral arterial occlusive disease, (c) orthopedic or chronic pain conditions that significantly alter gait function, (d) pulmonary or renal failure (e) active cancer
* History of non-stroke neuromuscular disorder restricting gait.
* Aphasia or cognitive functioning that confounds participation, defined as unable to follow 2 step commands or judgment of the medical officer or therapist.
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.
What they're measuring
1
Angle at Initial Contact
Timeframe: Change from Baseline at both 9 Weeks and at 21 Weeks
2
Swing Dorsiflexion
Timeframe: Change from Baseline at both 9 Weeks and at 21 Weeks
3
Number of Heel-First Foot Strikes
Timeframe: Change from Baseline at both 9 Weeks and at 21 Weeks
4
Gait Velocity
Timeframe: Change from Baseline at both 9 Weeks and at 21 Weeks