Potential Effects of Novel Sensorimotor Upper Limb Rehabilitation Paradigm

Sensorimotor function of the upper limb is often impaired after stroke, even in the chronic phase (minimum 6 months after stroke). Currently, an optimal therapy combining both motor and sensory function, with focus on sensory processing (one of the most important sensory functions), does not exists. However, the research team has developed a novel therapy paradigm combining robot-based training, a transfer package to daily life activities, and a home program. As a first step, the investigators will examine the feasibility and potential benefits of this novel therapy approach within this pilot study. This intervention study will recruit 10 persons with chronic stroke. The participants will be measured a first time with both robot-based and clinical assessments. Thereafter, the participant follows a 4-week control period, only receiving standard care. After the control period, a second measuring moment is planned using the same outcome measures as during the first measurement. Then, a the 4-week intervention is planned, whereby participants get 48 hours additional sensorimotor upper limb training. The participants will come 3 times per week to Leuven for a therapy session of two hours. During these therapy sessions, the participants receive one hour robot-based therapy and one hour transfer package training with a therapist. Additionally, the participants follow 6 times a week a 1-hour home program. After this intervention period, the particpants are measured a last time using the same outcome measures as during the previous measuring moments. The investigators hypothesize that this therapy approach is feasible and potentially effective in chronic stroke.

Optionally, if the participants is willing and able to, additional MRI and/or fNIRS assessments will be added to give a first idea regarding changes in brain structure, function and activity because of this novel therapy approach. This study will inform the investigators to finalize the protocol for a following RCT.

Inclusion criteria

• Written informed consent must be obtained prior to any screening procedures
• A first-ever unilateral, supra-tentorial stroke, as defined by WHO (rapidly developing clinical signs of focal (or global) disturbance of cerebral function, with symptoms lasting 24 hours or longer or leading to death, with no apparent cause other than vascular origin)
• ≥18 years old
• Being in the chronic phase after stroke, i.e. > 6 months post stroke
• Motor impairment in the upper limb, defined as Fugl-Meyer score >22 out of 66 to demonstrate moderate to full upper limb motor function (patients scoring <23 out of 66 will not be able to comply with the KINARM protocol)
• Residual sensory upper limb impairment, defined as Tactile Discrimination Test score <24 out of 25
• Impaired functionality, defined as Action Research Arm Test score <52 out of 57
• Manageable spasticity for KINARM tasks

Exclusion criteria

• Having musculoskeletal and/or other neurological disorders impacting care or prognosis
• Having severe communication or cognitive deficits that interfere with the protocol
• Any disorder, which in the investigator's opinion might jeopardise participant's safety or compliance with the CIP
• Contraindications for robot-based therapy (e.g., uncontrolled epilepsy)
• Participation in another clinical investigation
• Having uncontrolled head movements (e.g. tremor), only relevant if participant is willing to receive the additional fNIRS assessments
• Having any contra-indications for MRI, only relevant if participant is willing to receive the additional MRI assessments:

• Pacemaker
• Implantable Cardioverter Defibrillator (ICD)
• Cochlear implant
• Internal Insulin-pump
• Deep brain stimulation
• Any other metal device in body
• Claustrophobia
• Having a history of a neuropsychiatric or neurologic disorder before the diagnosis of stroke (e.g., depression, traumatic brain injury)
• Use of psychoactive medication before the diagnosis of stroke (e.g., anti-depressive medication)
• Use (or history of use) of drugs/alcohol
• Being pregnant