New arm therapy could help stroke survivors reach further

NCT ID NCT04118998

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

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.

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.

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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

  • 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