Clinical Research Directory

Multifocal Theta-Burst Stimulation to Enhance Upper Limb Motor Recovery After Stroke (INSPIRE)

Stroke is one of the leading causes of long-term disability worldwide. Many individuals who survive a stroke continue to experience weakness and reduced control of one arm, even months or years after the event. These motor impairments significantly affect independence, daily activities, and quality of life. Despite rehabilitation efforts, recovery of upper limb function remains incomplete for many patients. Motor recovery after stroke depends on the brain's ability to reorganize itself, a process known as neuroplasticity. Recent research suggests that motor learning and brain recovery are influenced not only by activity in the primary motor cortex (M1), but also by its functional connectivity with other brain regions, particularly the parietal cortex (PC). Strengthening communication between these regions may enhance motor recovery. This study aims to investigate a novel, non-invasive brain stimulation approach called intermittent theta-burst stimulation (iTBS). Unlike traditional stimulation methods that target a single brain region, this study uses a multifocal stimulation protocol targeting both the primary motor cortex and the parietal cortex. The stimulation is combined with structured motor training using an interactive tablet-based rehabilitation device (REAtouch®Lite 2), designed to improve arm movement through goal-directed reaching tasks. The study is a single-center, randomized, sham-controlled, triple-blind clinical trial with parallel groups. Thirty-six individuals with chronic stroke-related upper limb impairment will be randomly assigned to receive either active multifocal iTBS or sham (placebo) stimulation. Both groups will complete identical motor training sessions. In addition, ten healthy participants will complete the same motor training protocol (without brain stimulation) to provide reference data. Participants will attend six visits over approximately 10 days. Assessments will include motor performance tests using the interactive tablet, a standardized clinical motor scale (Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Upper Extremity), and resting-state electroencephalography (EEG) to measure brain connectivity changes. The primary outcome is improvement in motor performance between baseline and one week after the intervention. Secondary outcomes include short-term motor improvements, retention of learning, changes in movement quality, and changes in brain functional connectivity. This study seeks to determine whether combining multifocal brain stimulation with targeted motor training can enhance motor learning and promote better recovery of arm function after stroke. If effective, this approach could contribute to the development of more precise, network-based neurorehabilitation strategies.

Eccentric Cycling in Multiple Sclerosis Rehabilitation

The project aims to optimise functional rehabilitation programmes for people with multiple sclerosis. Investigators are proposing eccentric cycling as a new exercise modality for treating these patients. Based on previous results in healthy subjects, investigators will attempt to define the optimal parameters of this new modality (in terms of duration, intensity, frequency, etc.). Investigators also aim to demonstrate the effectiveness of this training (compared to conventional training) in improving muscle function, functional capacity, perception of chronic fatigue, quality of life, physical condition, and neurological and cognitive function.

Towards Restoring Complex Movement After Paralysis: Algorithm Development With Healthy Participants

Participants will perform experiments with non-invasive activity recordings. The study will record from multiple non-invasive signal sources that reflect motor intent that may include: electroencephalography (EEG), electromyography (EMG), functional near infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS), inertial measurement units (IMUs), eye movements, pupil size, and speech. Participants will wear all or a subset of these sensors and be asked to perform, imagine, or attempt movements or speech. The recorded sensor signals will be decoded to help guide an end effector, which may be a computer, robotic arm, wheelchair, or other assistive device. These experiments present minimal risk and participants may withdraw participation at any time for any reason. Participants may return for additional experiments if desired and to perform additional comparisons. If a participant withdraws during a comparison, another participant will be recruited to complete collection of data for that comparison.

Comprehensive Therapeutic Program For People With Multiple Sclerosis

This study investigates the effectiveness of an intensive multidisciplinary rehabilitation program for people with multiple sclerosis (PwMS). The program integrates intensive outpatient physiotherapy, psychotherapeutic consultations, and nutritional counseling to enhance motor and cognitive functions, promote neuroplasticity, and improve overall well-being as well as physical performance in PwMS. Through clinical assessments and standardized questionnaires, the study aims to provide scientific evidence on the benefits of comprehensive, non-pharmacological therapy as a core element in MS treatment.

Cognitive Functions in Severe Acquired Brain Injury After Cranioplasty

Cranioplasty is the main reconstructive neurosurgical procedure, performed in approximately 80% of patients who have previously undergone demolitive surgeries in an emergency setting, particularly in the case of decompressive craniectomy . It mainly aims to ensure the protection of brain tissue and improve the aesthetic appearance. Statistical correlation analyses between timing of cranioplasty and neurological recovery are probably in favor of early cranioplasty. Cranioplasty improves motor and cognitive rehabilitation outcomes. However, it carries an increased risk of postoperative complications, such as seizures and infections. Other studies show that cranioplasty performed 3 to 6 months after craniectomy can significantly improve motor and cognitive recovery. The timing of the intervention plays a fundamental role in enucleating cognitive improvement. In fact, greater cognitive changes have been observed in patients who underwent cranioplasty within 6 months of the injury. Therefore, cranioplasty must be considered a key factor for neuropsychological recovery and should be performed early in order to make the most of the rehabilitation window. In the literature, there are studies that have evaluated how cranioplasty can facilitate cognitive recovery, regardless of timing. In particular, a significant cognitive recovery was observed in the period immediately following cranioplasty, while the improvement stabilizes after a certain period of time and recovery begins to slow down. In patients with severe acquired brain injury (GCA), cranioplasty seems to significantly improve neuropsychological and motor function, even after a long time from the procedure. The aim of the study is therefore to evaluate whether in patients with severe acquired brain injury who underwent cranioplasty in the neurorehabilitation setting there is an improvement in cognitive, motor functions and psychological aspects.

Neurorehabilitation of Cognitive Deficits in Multiple Sclerosis Using an Adaptive Cognitive Exergame - Randomized, Controlled, Multi-center Clinical Trial

Approximately 2.8 million people worldwide suffer from multiple sclerosis (MS). In 40 to 70% of cases, individuals with MS experience cognitive impairments that significantly interfere with their personal lives, careers, and quality of life. Current pharmacological and neurorehabilitation treatment options do not adequately reduce cognitive deficits. The absence of standards of care in Switzerland or internationally regarding cognitive neurorehabilitation in MS highlights the need for effective interventions with lasting effects. To address this need, we are exploring different approaches to support and improve cognitive impairments through training exercises using computerized tools. Traditionally, these exercises are in paper-and-pencil format, consisting of tests, puzzles, and memory tasks. While this approach is useful, computerized tools now allow us to offer more playful, interactive, and engaging approaches. In this study, we are examining the effect of serious video games (a medical device) on cognitive deficits related to MS. The serious video games we are testing have already been evaluated at CHUV in individuals with MS and cognitive impairments. This recent study demonstrated the feasibility and safety of using these games in people with MS. With the current study, we aim to test these tools on a larger scale in order to better understand their effects on cognitive functions. More specifically, we seek to determine which of the two proposed interventions provides the greatest cognitive benefits.

Cognitive Rehabilitation of Deficits in Patients With Multiple Sclerosis

Non-Inferiority Study, Post-Market Clinical Investigation with a Device, Single-Blind Randomized Controlled Trial in a Cohort of Patients Diagnosed with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The aim of the study is to assess whether a computer-based cognitive treatment delivered via telerehabilitation produces effects from T0 to T1 that are not inferior to those of an in-person treatment on sustained attention in a cohort of patients with MS. The secondary objective is to evaluate the effects of telerehabilitation compared to the same treatment delivered in person on attentional shifting, memory, executive functions, and daily functioning (including cognitive fatigue, quality of life, and mood) in patients with MS.

Effects of Robotic Gloves Along With Task-oriented Mirror Therapy on Motor Functions of Hands in Sub-acute Stroke Patients

This study is randomized control trial and purpose of this study is to find effects of robotic gloves assisted task-oriented mirror therapy in comparison with task-oriented mirror therapy on motor functions of hand in sub-acute stroke patients.

Movement-activated Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Rehabilitation

Rehabilitation engineering laboratory (RELab) at the ETH Zurich is recruiting participants with a motor function deficit for studying a novel non-invasive brain stimulation method that may be a promising approach for benefiting motor recovery after conditions like stroke, traumatic brain injury or spinal cord injury. The study will be conducted at the cereneo Hertenstein clinic. Participants with residual motor function deficit due to stroke or spine/brain injury will be undergoing typical neurorehabilitation procedures in addition to the use of the automatically controlled non-invasive Vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS). This study will analyze the feasibility of this method before it can be used by doctors generally. More specifically, this study aims to test whether controlling taVNS with a wearable wrist-worn sensor during rehabilitation exercises for movement is both practical and safe. This stimulation works by involves sending tiny electric pulses to the outside of the ear after the wrist sensor detects movement. These pulses activate the auricular Vagus nerve and in turn the brain. Over the course of multiple rehabilitation procedures, taVNS may to help with the speed of motor recovery as shown with previous, manually controlled studies. The goal of this study is wants to see if the automatically controlled taVNSs method works well and doesn\'t cause any harm while people are doing their therapy exercises. If successful, in the future it could offer a new way to improve the recovery process movement for people with motor difficulties.

Neurorehabilitation Through Hippotherapy of a Brain Stroke

Cerebrovascular accident \[CVA\] (medical term for stroke) is a high burden worldwide disorder and the second leading cause of disability. As illustrated by the number of survivors that remain disabled after a CVA (2 out of 3 according to the US National Stroke Association), recovery is limited, and novel neurorehabilitation approaches are urgently needed. Hippotherapy is an emerging specialized rehabilitation approach, performed by accredited health professionals on a specially trained horse via its movement. A body of scientific evidence has gradually emerged in recent years, showing robust benefits of hippotherapy in various massive neurological disabling conditions including brain stroke. The aim of the study is to analyze the effect of a hippotherapy program of several cycles delivered during 22 weeks in total, on the functional and global evolution of post-stroke patients (with a score of Rankin ≥ 3 at inclusion) during the outpatient rehabilitation phase. A second purpose is to measure the impact of the intervention on the quality of life of their close caregivers. A prospective clinical trial on the effectiveness of hippotherapy versus conventional outpatient rehabilitation alone will be carried out. The 22-weeks program includes three cycles of hippotherapy as follows: an initial 2-weeks cycle, an intermediate 1-week cycle and a final 1-week cycle. One-hour daily sessions will be conducted during each cycle exclusive additional rehabilitation care. After each cycle, the patients will have a 9-weeks rest period where they will continue their conventional therapy. A battery of clinical tests will measure both functional and psychological outcome. The primary end point will be the functional independence of the patient. The secondary end points will consider the patient's sensorimotor and cognitive function, the severity of stroke and the quality of life, as well as the caregivers' burden and quality of life. Program evaluation is important in neurorehabilitation to ensure that patients are achieving meaningful outcomes from the care. A primary question is how do stroke patients clinically evolve after being discharged from the hospital and how stable is the achieved rehabilitation outcome. Hippotherapy optimizes brain plasticity and has a strong impact on the global rehabilitation process and functional outcome of these patients. A remaining question concerns the improvement of the caregivers' quality of life.