Mirror, mirror, in the hand: could a simple trick boost stroke recovery?

NCT ID NCT06103045

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether using a mirror to create the illusion of movement in a paralyzed arm can improve function in people who had a stroke within the past month. 49 participants were split into three groups: one did mirror therapy with only the good arm moving, another moved both arms, and a third received standard occupational therapy. All groups had 20 sessions over 4 weeks, and researchers measured arm movement, strength, and daily activity before and after treatment.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance

mirror therapy (unilateral and bilateral)

What this could lead to

If successful, this could point toward a simple, low-cost therapy to improve arm movement after a stroke.

What could go wrong

This is a small pilot study (49 people) with no blinding, so results may not be reliable or generalizable. The therapy is not a cure and only aims to ease symptoms.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for STROKE (SUBACUTE) are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • National Taiwan University Hospital Hsin-Chu Branch

    Hsinchu, 300, Taiwan