Locomotor Recovery and Compensation Post-stroke

Stroke Recovery Study

T
T. George Hornby

Primary Investigator

Enrolling By Invitation
18 years - 85 years
All
Phase N/A
180 participants needed
1 Location

Brief description of study

The proposed research will characterize of the time course of neurological and locomotor recovery as well as development of compensatory strategies throughout sub-acute and chronic phases post stroke. In addition, we will also investigate the extent to which measures of recovery and compensation are malleable and can be altered with specific interventions in both the early and late stages post-stroke. Delineation of the time course of development and magnitude of patterns of recovery and compensation should result in alternative predictive "rules' regarding how patients early post-stroke could recovery functional and neurological function.
 
THIS STUDY IS ENROLLING BY INVITATION ONLY - Potential participants will be identified by clinical staff, who will inquire if they are interested in research. 

Detailed description of study

Participation in Part A of this research study will last up to 6 months following stroke. 
  • At regular intervals following initial injury (15 days and at 1, 2, 4, and 6 months after stroke), participants will visit the Locomotor Recovery Laboratory at the Rehabilitation Hospital of Indiana, where researchers will assess strength, balance and walking ability.
  •  Each session will last approximately 2-3 hours. Participants will also wear a monitor on the leg called the Stepwatch that detects the number of steps taken each day.
Participation in Part B of this study will last from 6 to 12 months after stroke. 
  • Researchers will assess strength, balance and walking ability at 6, 7, 9, and 12 months post-stroke. 
  • From 6-9 months post-stroke, participants will also receive up to 30 physical therapy visits that focus on high-intensity walking training. Participants will continue to wear a monitor on the leg to detect stepping activity.

Eligibility of study

You may be eligible for this study if you meet the following criteria:

  • Conditions: Stroke
  • Age: 18 years - 85 years
  • Gender: All

Inclusion criteria:

  • individuals early post-stroke (<15-30 days)
  • first ever stroke
  • unilateral hemiparesis
  • currently receiving inpatient rehabilitation
  • ability to follow 1-step commands
  • provision of informed consent
  • medical clearance from the rehabilitation physician to participate. \

Exclusion criteria:

  • uncontrolled cardiovascular, metabolic or respiratory disease that limits exercise participation (e.g., congestive heart failure, resting blood pressure > 200/110 mmHg, uncontrolled diabetes, end-stage renal disease)
  • absolute criteria for termination of exercise testing during initial and repeated ECG testing during graded exercise testing using ACSM guidelines .
  • other orthopedic or neurological disorder that limited walking prior to stroke

This study investigates how people recover movement and develop new ways to move after having a stroke. A stroke happens when blood flow to part of the brain stops, which can cause problems with moving and thinking. The purpose of this study is to see how recovery and new movement strategies change over time and with specific treatments after a stroke.

Participants will visit a special lab to check their strength, balance, and walking at different times after their stroke. They will also wear a device called the Stepwatch on their leg to count their steps every day. Some participants will receive up to 30 sessions of physical therapy focused on walking training.

  • Who can participate: Individuals who had their first stroke 15-30 days ago, have unilateral hemiparesis, and are in inpatient rehabilitation may participate. They must follow simple commands and have medical clearance.
  • Study details: Participants will wear a monitor to track their steps. Some will receive physical therapy focused on walking training.
  • Study timelines: The study will last up to 12 months after stroke.
Updated on 03 Nov 2025. Study ID: PHMR-IIR-HORNBY-LRC, 2011618233
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Interested in the study?

This study is accepting only persons who receive care at a certain clinic or doctor or who are part of an invited group. Questions about this study can be directed to the study team listed in the description or contact your doctor to see if you are eligible.

Accepting Referrals by Invitation Only