BCI-FES Therapy for Stroke Rehabilitation

This trial explores a new method to help stroke survivors improve their walking abilities. It tests a combination of brain-computer interface (BCI) technology and functional electrical stimulation (FES) to determine if it enhances recovery more effectively than regular physical therapy alone. The study compares BCI-FES dorsiflexion therapy with two types of physiotherapy sessions, one lasting one hour and the other two hours. Individuals who have experienced a stroke, have difficulty lifting their foot when walking (foot-drop), and can walk at least 10 meters may be suitable candidates for this trial.

As an unphased trial, this study provides a unique opportunity to contribute to innovative research that could enhance stroke recovery therapies.

The trial information does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are taking medications that affect seizure threshold, like tricyclic antidepressants or neuroleptics, you may not be eligible for certain procedures in the study.

Research has shown that BCI-FES therapy, which combines brain-computer interface technology with electrical stimulation, is safe for stroke recovery. Studies suggest this treatment can improve walking and is well-tolerated by patients. These studies have reported no major safety issues.

For physiotherapy, research consistently finds that increased physical therapy, such as two-hour sessions, leads to better recovery for stroke patients. This therapy is very safe and is a standard part of stroke recovery.

Researchers are excited about the BCI-FES dorsiflexion therapy for stroke rehabilitation because it combines brain-computer interface (BCI) technology with functional electrical stimulation (FES), which is not part of the standard physiotherapy regimen. Unlike typical post-stroke therapies that focus solely on muscle exercises, this approach uses an EEG cap to translate brain signals into movements, potentially enhancing neuroplasticity and improving motor recovery more effectively. Meanwhile, the dose-and intensity-matched physiotherapy arm explores the impact of simply increasing physiotherapy duration to two hours, aiming to determine if more extended conventional therapy alone can yield similar benefits. This trial explores whether integrating advanced tech like BCI-FES or simply increasing therapy duration can significantly boost recovery after a stroke.

Research shows that BCI-FES therapy, which uses brain signals and electrical stimulation to help muscles move, can be effective for stroke recovery. Studies have found that this method can improve walking speed and foot movement after a stroke, potentially helping survivors walk better by directly addressing foot weakness. Early evidence suggests this therapy is safe and could lead to lasting improvements in movement. Participants in this trial may receive BCI-FES dorsiflexion therapy combined with one hour of physiotherapy.