Non-Invasive Brain Signal Training to Induce Motor Control Recovery After Stroke

The purpose of this trial was to evaluate the benefits of combination motor learning training and brain computer interface training for restoring arm function in people with stroke. Our aim was to determine whether the surface-acquired brain signal (electroencephalography (EEG)) can feasibly be used as a neural feedback system to drive more normal motor function in stroke survivors.

The financial burden and human suffering are devastating after stroke due to the lack of rehabilitation protocols that can restore normal brain and motor function. Conventional treatment does not restore normal motor function to many stroke survivors. The majority of available treatments are directed at the peripheral nervous system (arms/legs). Since stroke occurs in the brain and results in brain damage and dysfunction, a more direct approach may be to re-train the brain by directly treating the activation of brain signals that control movement. The purposes of this study are to determine if motor learning, functional electrical stimulation (FES), and brain computer interface (BCI) training are beneficial for restoring arm function in people who have had a stroke, and to determine if the surface-acquired brain signal [electroencephalography (EEG)] can be re-trained to provide more normal motor function in stroke survivors. The primary purpose of this study is to determine the efficacy of the motor learning tasks in stroke recovery. In the study, scientists will use two different and complimentary brain signal training components to restore more normal motor control of a motor task (elbow, wrist, or finger movement task). Specifically targeting, invoking, and training the surface-acquired EEG brain signal, and integrating brain signal training into motor learning training of upper limb motor tasks, may result in greater motor restoration when compared to a comprehensive motor learning intervention without EEG brain signal training. Eight people who had a stroke were enrolled in the experimental group. They received brain signal training and comprehensive motor learning based therapy. An additional 5 healthy adults were enrolled in order to study their ability to acquire brain signal control and the characteristics of their brain signal during the tasks that the stroke participants attempted.

stroke, motor learning, rehabilitation of upper extremity, functional electrical stimulation, FES, brain computer interface, BCI, coordination, motor control

Individuals in the stroke experimental group received treatment with BCI, FES, and motor learning targeted at their upper extremity motor deficits following stroke.

FES is a technique that electrically stimulates a muscle in a comfortable manner in order to contract the muscle. It uses an electrode placed on the surface of the skin. This study will use BCI, FES, and motor learning interventions to address upper extremity motor deficits following stroke.

Motor learning is an exercise that uses movements needed for everyday tasks such as picking up a glass or opening a book. This study will use BCI, FES, and motor learning interventions to address upper extremity motor deficits following stroke.

BCI training uses signals produced by the brain to help individuals with stroke move their weak arm. This study will use BCI, FES and motor learning interventions to address upper extremity motor deficits following stroke.

Inclusion Criteria: medically stable and >/= 6 months post stroke difficulty using upper limb for functional tasks >21 years old Exclusion Criteria: chronic, progressive medical condition (i.e. Parkinson's disease)