Cortical Changes After Upper Limb Immobilization Measured by Electroencephalography (NCT07428304) | Clinical Trial Compass
Active — Not RecruitingNot Applicable
Cortical Changes After Upper Limb Immobilization Measured by Electroencephalography
Spain30 participantsStarted 2026-04-01
Plain-language summary
This study aims to investigate how temporary immobilization of the upper limb after injury affects brain activity and functional recovery.
Participants with fractures or soft tissue injuries of the upper limb who require immobilization will be evaluated at three time points: at the beginning of immobilization, after removal of the immobilization, and four weeks later.
Brain activity will be measured using electroencephalography (EEG), a non-invasive and painless technique that records electrical signals from the scalp. Functional outcomes such as pain, mobility, strength, and daily activity performance will also be assessed using validated questionnaires and clinical tests.
The purpose of this study is to better understand how immobilization influences the brain and physical recovery, in order to improve rehabilitation strategies for patients with upper limb injuries.
Participation is voluntary, and all participants will provide written informed consent.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 70 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:
* Adults aged 18 years or older.
* Radiologically confirmed upper limb fracture (distal radius, proximal humerus, metacarpals, phalanges, or carpal bones) or soft tissue injury (e.g., tendinopathy, triangular fibrocartilage complex injury).
* Requirement of orthopedic immobilization of the wrist/hand extending to the proximal two-thirds of the forearm for a minimum of 2 weeks and a maximum of 8 weeks.
* Ability to understand study procedures and follow instructions.
* Provision of written informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of neurological disorders (e.g., stroke, epilepsy, traumatic brain injury).
* Current use of psychoactive or anticonvulsant medication.
* Bilateral upper limb injuries.
* Wrist fractures requiring elbow immobilization.
* Previous upper limb fracture or instability within the last 2 years.
* Cognitive impairment preventing adequate participation.
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
Change in Sensorimotor Cortical Activity Measured by EEG
Timeframe: Baseline (within 5 days of immobilization), 24-48 hours after immobilization removal, and 4 weeks post-removal.