Clinical Research Directory

Brain Stimulation Combined With Watching Hand Movements to Improve Hand Recovery in Chronic Stroke

This study investigates the neurophysiological and electrophysiological mechanisms underlying the combined use of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and action observation therapy (AOT) for hand motor recovery in individuals with stroke. Background: While both tDCS and AOT have shown promise individually for stroke rehabilitation, the neural mechanisms of their combined effects remain unclear. Understanding these mechanisms could optimise rehabilitation protocols and improve functional outcomes. Intervention: Participants will receive 10 sessions of anodal tDCS over the ipsilesional motor cortex combined with AOT over two weeks in a clinical setting, followed by 8 weeks of home-based AOT practice. Control groups will receive tDCS alone or AOT alone. Neurophysiological changes will be assessed using motor evoked potentials (MEPs) to evaluate corticospinal excitability. Clinical hand function will be assessed using standardised outcome measures. Measurements: Assessments will be conducted at baseline, during intervention (week 2), and after the home practice phase (week 10) to evaluate neuroplastic changes. Significance: This study will provide mechanistic insights into how neuromodulation and observational learning interact to promote motor recovery, informing evidence-based rehabilitation strategies for stroke survivors in Malaysia and globally. Study Design: Randomised controlled trial with three parallel arms, recruiting 60 participants with chronic stroke from Sabah, Malaysia.

Ultrasound Evaluation of Hematoma Risk After Needle EMG in Patient on DOAC Therapy

Approximately 30 minutes after needle EMG, patients who are taking direct oral anticoagulants (DOACs) will undergo an ultrasound examination to evaluate for the presence of possible intramuscular hematomas at the muscles where the EMG needle was inserted. These hematomas are considered a potential adverse effect of needle EMG. The aim of the study is to determine whether needle EMG can be considered a safe procedure in this group of patients, without posing a risk of intramuscular hematoma formation.

Impact of Knee Extension Brace on Quadriceps EMG During ASLR

The main objective of this study is to evaluate quadriceps thigh muscle activity during active straight leg raise (ASLR) with a knee brace. An additional aim of the study is to evaluate quadriceps activity during straight leg raise with a knee brace in a variable command and manner of task performance. The study will be conducted on a group of healthy individuals aged 18 - 35 years. Height and weight were measured using a scale and centimetre tape. Then, according to the study protocol, specific measurements will be taken of the rectus femoris, medial vastus and lateral vastus muscles using surface EMG of a non-invasive nature. Study participants will undergo the following measurements: 1. Measurement of the MVIC (maximum voluntary isometric contraction) of the quadriceps of the thigh, in a sitting position with the lower leg flexed to 90 degrees and in knee extended (0 degrees). 2. Measurement of muscle activity during elevation of the straightened lower limb in a supine position without an orthosis. 3. Measurement of muscle activity during straight leg raise in supine position with knee brace (default and different commends).

Gait Analysis in Patients With Hemiplegia Using Insole Splint.

The goal of this clinical trial is to compare the gait of patients with hemiplegia, with or without the use of insole splint. The main questions it aims to answer are: Does the insole splint improve the gait of these patients? Does any difference exist in the use of muscles? Participants will have to walk in the gait analysis' aisle with and without the insole splint, using wireless EMG device.

The Effect of BMI on Gluteus Maximum Activity in Adulthood With Sacroiliac Dysfunction

PURPOSE: This study will be conducted to investigate the effect of BMI on gluteus maximum activity in adulthood with sacroiliac dysfunction BACKGROUND: Sacroiliac joint (SIJ) pain is pain arising from SIJ structures and SIJ dysfunction (SIJD) generally refers to aberrant position or movement of SIJ structures . An estimated 15-30% of all low back pain cases are due to SIJ pain The present study will be conducted to add a new information to the body of knowledge of physical therapy profession as it will investigate the effect of BMI on gluteus maximum activity in adulthood with sacroiliac dysfunction HYPOTHESES: . •There will be no effect of BMI on gluteus maximum activity in adulthood with sacroiliac dysfunction RESEARCH QUESTION: * Do BMI has an effect on gluteus maximum activity in adulthood with sacroiliac dysfunction?