Wristband Accelerometers to motiVate arm Exercise after Stroke (WAVES): study protocol for a pilot randomized...

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Biomedical engineering
• Clinical trials

Background:

• Up to 85% of acute stroke patients experience upper limb dysfunction.
• Intensive, task-specific practice is crucial for recovery.
• Integrating upper limb movements into daily activities remains a challenge for stroke survivors.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a multi-centre, observer-blind, pilot randomised controlled trial (RCT) of the CueS wristband.
• To evaluate the potential of wearable technology to enhance upper limb activity in stroke patients.
• To inform the design of a future definitive RCT on the clinical and cost-effectiveness of the CueS wristband.

Main Methods:

• A pilot RCT involving 60 participants within 3 months of stroke with reduced upper limb function.
• Participants received a 4-week upper limb therapy program, randomized to wear either the CueS wristband with live feedback or a sham device.
• Feasibility outcomes included recruitment, retention, adverse events, adherence, and data collection of clinical and accelerometer data.

Main Results:

• The study will determine the feasibility of the protocol in clinical stroke services.
• Data on recruitment rates, participant retention, and adherence to the intervention will be collected.
• Adverse events and the collection of motor performance data will be analyzed to assess feasibility.

Conclusions:

• The WAVES study will report on the feasibility of evaluating affordable technology for upper limb activity post-stroke.
• Findings will guide the development of a larger, multi-centre RCT.
• The study addresses a gap in evidence regarding technology-assisted stroke rehabilitation.