Motor Learning for Stroke Recovery
Trial Summary
What is the purpose of this trial?
This project seeks to determine how post-stroke cognitive impairment moderates motor learning during walking in older adults with chronic stroke and identify brain structural markers that mediate this relationship. The chosen experimental design integrates biomechanical analyses, neuropsychological assessments, and brain imaging techniques to determine the impact of post-stroke cognitive impairment severity on two forms of motor learning (explicit and implicit) and examine the role of the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in the relationship between cognition and explicit motor learning. Ultimately, this work may lead to the development of a more comprehensive, effective treatment approach to improve walking dysfunction in older adults post-stroke.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial information does not specify whether you need to stop taking your current medications. However, it does exclude those with uncontrolled hypertension and concurrent physical therapy, which might imply some medication considerations.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment Motor Learning for Stroke Recovery?
Research suggests that implicit motor learning, which involves learning without conscious awareness, may be more effective than explicit learning for stroke patients, especially in tasks that require attention and working memory. This approach has shown benefits in improving motor skills and dual-task performance in stroke recovery.12345
Is motor learning for stroke recovery safe for humans?
How does the treatment 'Motor Learning for Stroke Recovery' differ from other treatments for stroke recovery?
This treatment is unique because it focuses on motor learning through both explicit (conscious) and implicit (unconscious) methods, which can be particularly beneficial for stroke patients with attention and memory deficits. Unlike traditional therapies that may rely heavily on explicit instructions, this approach leverages the brain's ability to learn motor skills implicitly, potentially enhancing recovery by engaging different brain areas.23478
Research Team
Kristan Leech, PT, DPT, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Southern California
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for older adults who had a stroke at least 6 months ago, can walk (with or without help), and have no severe cognitive deficits, dementia, uncontrolled high blood pressure, ongoing physical therapy for other conditions, or any metal implants that interfere with MRI scans.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Trial Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo biomechanical analyses, neuropsychological assessments, and brain imaging techniques to evaluate motor learning and brain structures post-stroke
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for retention of motor learning and changes in step length asymmetry
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Explicit motor learning (Behavioural Intervention)
- Implicit motor learning (Behavioural Intervention)
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Southern California
Lead Sponsor