Rhythmic Initiation vs Isometric Training for Arm Recovery After Stroke (NCT07598435) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Rhythmic Initiation vs Isometric Training for Arm Recovery After Stroke
Pakistan40 participantsStarted 2026-01-19
Plain-language summary
Stroke is a leading cause of long-term disability worldwide. Many stroke survivors experience persistent weakness, loss of motor control, and poor coordination in their upper limb, which limits their ability to perform daily activities and return to independent living. This study compares two physical therapy approaches for patients in the subacute stage of stroke recovery (1 to 6 months after stroke). The first approach is Rhythmic Initiation, a technique from Proprioceptive Neuromuscular Facilitation (PNF) that uses smooth, guided movement patterns progressing from passive to active movement. The second approach is Isometric Resistance Training, which involves holding static muscle contractions against resistance without moving the joint. The study will enroll 40 patients aged 40 to 60 years with unilateral upper limb weakness from a first-time stroke. Participants will be randomly assigned to receive either Rhythmic Initiation or Isometric Resistance Training for 30 minutes per session, 5 days per week, for 4 weeks. The researchers will measure changes in motor function, muscle strength, coordination, and spasticity before and after the 4-week intervention. The results will help physiotherapists understand which approach is more effective for upper limb rehabilitation in subacute stroke patients.
Who can participate
Age range
40 Years – 60 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:
* Clinically diagnosed subacute stroke (1 to 6 months post-onset)
* Unilateral upper limb involvement
* Age 40 to 60 years
* Both genders
* Medically stable and able to participate in physical therapy
* Able to provide informed consent
Exclusion Criteria:
* Severe spasticity (Modified Ashworth Scale score \>3)
* Recurrent or bilateral stroke
* Shoulder subluxation
* Shoulder or upper limb pain limiting active movement
* Cognitive or perceptual deficits impairing ability to follow instructions
* Other neurological disorder affecting upper limb (e.g., Parkinson's disease, multiple sclerosis)
* Orthopedic condition affecting upper limb function
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.
1This trial compares two specific physical therapy techniques — rhythmic initiation and isometric training — for arm recovery after stroke; which of these approaches, if either, is already part of my current rehab plan, and would joining this study change what I'm receiving?
2Since this trial is listed as 'Phase NA,' meaning it may be more of a rehabilitation methods study than a drug trial, what does that mean for how much is already known about the safety and effectiveness of these two techniques for someone with my level of arm weakness?
3The study is measuring changes in upper extremity motor function — can you help me understand what kind of improvement would be considered meaningful for my specific situation, and how my current level of paresis compares to what this trial seems to be targeting?
4Given that this trial is actively recruiting right now, what would my participation actually look like week to week — how many sessions, how long, and would it interfere with my existing stroke recovery care?
5Is there a standard rehabilitation approach you'd recommend I try first before considering a comparative study like this one, or do you think my situation makes this trial worth discussing as a potential option?
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 Upper Extremity Motor Function
Timeframe: Baseline (week 0) and post-intervention (week 4)