New arm therapy could help stroke survivors reach further

NCT ID NCT04118998

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: Northwestern University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Aug 11, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests a new exercise therapy called Progressive Abduction Loading Therapy for people who recently had a stroke. The goal is to reduce a common arm problem called 'flexion synergy' that makes it hard to reach outward. 86 participants will receive either the new therapy or standard supported reaching exercises, and be tracked for one year to see if arm function improves.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: Progressive Abduction Loading Therapy (a behavioral exercise therapy)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could lead to a better rehabilitation method that helps stroke survivors regain arm movement and reduce long-term disability.
What could go wrong: This is a mid-stage trial with only 86 participants, so results may not apply to all stroke survivors. The therapy is behavioral, so benefits may be modest and depend on individual effort.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

middle cerebral artery infarction stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

STROKE, ACUTE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Department of Physical Therapy and Human Movement Sciences

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States
Northwestern Medicine Marianjoy Rehabilitation Hospital

Wheaton, Illinois, 60187, United States
Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

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