‘Physiotherapy for stroke - volunteers needed for research trial
We are still looking for research participants into physiotherapy for stroke, at the University of Surrey in Guildford. The treatment is Constraint Induced Movement Therapy, and involves two weeks of physiotherapy at the University. Participants may be asked to wear a sling on their unaffected arm to maximise use of the affected arm. The trial can also involve recordings of brain activity via EEG and fMRI.
We are looking for people aged 18-70 who have an arm or hand which has been affected by a stroke over a year ago. We are testing the theory that the brain still has the capacity for improvement of function even years after a stroke. The theory is that therapy encourages flexible working of the brain, so that movement is taken over by an undamaged area. This plasticity can be tapped by extensive practice with the affected hand. This is done both under the supervision of the therapist and at home during daily activities.
We are looking for people whose affected arm or hand have incomplete recovery yet a little voluntary movement. Participants need to be free of seizures and have no severe balance problems, though walking aids and wheelchairs can be accommodated. There is some financial help for reimbursement of expenses. To find out more, please visit our at website and use the links in the left hand column, or email to request an information pack. Alternatively please call Jenny Sanders, Research Officer, on 01483 682877with any questions. The trial will be running until January 2009.’
We are looking to recruit participants that are at least 12 months post injury/stroke, with a small amount of hand movement. Participants should have no severe balance problems and be seizure free. As this is research, we have criteria that people must match to make a worthwhile comparison and so inclusion in the study will be based on meeting these criteria. The study involves attending training sessions in Guildford, each weekday for 2 weeks and on additional testing days.
If you would like further information, please contact Caroline Cooper (Research Officer) on 01483 682877 or email: cit@surrey.ac.uk.
Team website address: www.surrey.ac.uk/CNRT
