Comparative Effects of SBES Versus TOT on Lower Limb Motor Function in Post-Stroke Patients

NCT07718776 | Active Not Recruiting DMC

• 1 other identifier: REC/RCR & AHS/25/0211
• Study Type: interventional
• Target: 32
• Locations: 1 country
• Sites: 1

Brief Summary

Stroke-induced lower limb impairments severely inhibit functional independence and mobility in survivors. Inventive techniques like Synergy-Based Electrical Stimulation (SBES) and Task-Oriented Training (TOT) support favorable rehabilitation results based on Neuroplasticity. This study aims to compare the effectiveness of these in restoring purposeful movements and enhancing motor functions in post-stroke patients.This study aims to compare the efficacy of (SBES) and Task-Oriented Training (TOT) in improving lower limb motor control in sub-acute post-stroke patients. This study will be a single-blinded randomized clinical trial design. Participants, aged 40-60 will be recruited in this study by Non-Probability convenience sampling from Rehabilitation centers and Neurology departments. Informed consent and consistent attendance throughout the intervention will be required. Through the computerized table generator method of randomization, participants will be evenly divided into two groups. Both groups will receive conventional therapy, like stretching, strengthening, and isometrics, with modalities. Group A will receive 30 Hz electrical stimulation on the affected lower limb muscles (hip flexors, knee flexors, and ankle dorsiflexors) in a synergic pattern, for 60 minutes, thrice weekly for 6 weeks. Group B will engage in functional tasks for 60 minutes, thrice weekly for 6 weeks, repeated 10 times per set with 2 sets of each activity, plus an additional self-practice session. Outcome measures will be assessed at baseline and post-intervention stages by the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for motor recovery, Time UP and Go Test (TUG) and 10 Meter Walk Test for functional mobility, gait, and balance. The paired sample t-test will be used for within-group analysis in the parametric data and the Wilcoxon test for non-parametric data, whereas, for between-group analysis independent t-test will be used for parametric data and Mann Whitney U test will be used for non-parametric data. Statistical analysis will be done by using SPSS version 26. Keywords: Lower Limb, motor control, SBES, Strength, Stroke, TOT.

Conditions

Post Stroke; Lower Limb

Keywords

Synergy based electrical stimulation; Task oriented training

Outcome Measures

Primary Outcomes (3)

• Fugl-Meyer Assessment:

  The Fugl-Meyer Assessment for Lower Extremity (FMA-LE) is a reliable tool to evaluate motor recovery in post-stroke patients. It consists of 17 items divided into five sections: reflex activity, volitional movement within synergy, mixing synergies, movement with little or no synergy, and coordination/speed. Each item is scored from 0 to 2, giving a maximum score of 34. Higher scores indicate better motor function. Reflex activity includes 3 items (max 6 points), synergy movements have 6 items (12 points), mixed synergy includes 2 items (4 points), isolated movements have 3 items (6 points), and coordination/speed includes 3 items (6 points). The heel-to-shin test is used for coordination. Scoring interpretation is: 0-10 severe, 11-20 moderate, 21-29 mild, and 30-34 minimal impairment. It takes 20-30 minutes and is administered by a trained professional.

  Baseline to 4 weeks

• The Timed Up and Go (TUG) Test

  This is a quick and reliable assessment used to evaluate mobility, balance, and fall risk in older adults and patients with neurological conditions like stroke. It involves timing how long it takes for a person to stand from a chair, walk three meters, turn, return, and sit down. Times under 10 seconds indicate normal mobility, while over 30 seconds suggest high fall risk. The test is simple, requires minimal equipment, and is widely used in clinical and rehabilitation settings. It helps monitor patient progress and guides treatment planning.

  Baseline to 4 weeks

• 10-Meter Walk Test

  The 10MWT is a quick and reliable assessment of gait speed over a short distance, commonly used in stroke rehabilitation. It involves timing a patient when they walk a 10-m path, typically within a 14-m walkaway to account for acceleration and deceleration. The test can be performed at a comfortable or fast pace. Gait speed is calculated in meters per second and is considered a strong predictor of functional mobility, fall risk, and community ambulation. It is widely used to monitor progress in stroke patients.

  Baseline to 4 weeks

Study Arms (2)

Therapy

EXPERIMENTAL

Hot pack and isometric exercises

Other: synergy Based Electrical stimulation; Other: Task oriented training

Conventional Therapy

ACTIVE COMPARATOR

Hot pack and isometric exercises

Other: synergy Based Electrical stimulation; Other: Task oriented training

Interventions

Task oriented training OTHER

Tot Sit-to-stand, reaching, weight shifting, gait training, ball-kicking, tandem/side walking• Increase intensity by slightly reducing assistance • Add unstable surfaces for gait

Conventional Therapy; Therapy

synergy Based Electrical stimulation OTHER

Synergy based visible but comfortable muscle contraction in semi-supine position, surface electrodes on hip and knee flexors and dorsiflexors.• Intensity adjusted based on tolerance • Monitor muscle response and patient comfort

Conventional Therapy; Therapy

Eligibility Criteria

• Age: 40 Years - 60 Years
• Sex: all
• Healthy Volunteers: No
• Age Groups: Adult (18-64)

You may qualify if:

• Age: 40 to 60 years
• Both Male and Female participants
• In the sub-acute phase of stroke (1-6 months post-stroke) with lower limb motor impairment but with the ability to initiate at least trace muscle contraction (Grade ≥ 1).
• Participants must have the ability to understand and follow simple verbal commands with the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) ≥ 26.
• Participants must have a first-ever ischemic and hemorrhagic stroke in the sub-acute stage.
• Participants who are functionally ambulatory and able to walk a minimum of 10 feet, with or without the use of assistive devices with a Functional Ambulation Category (FAC) score ≥ 2.

You may not qualify if:

• Participants have severe cognitive impairment and an inability to understand or follow instructions, and severe sensory impairment with profound sensory loss in the lower limb affecting balance or feedback-based training.
• Participants having orthopedic limitations like recent fractures, joint deformities, or surgeries affecting the lower limbs.
• Participants having implanted electrical devices like pacemakers are contraindicated for electrical stimulation
• Participants having a history of more than one stroke episode and or multiple infarcts.

Sponsors & Collaborators

• Riphah International University: lead

Study Sites (1)

Unknown Facility

Lahore, Punjab Province, 54000, Pakistan

Location

Study Design

• Study Type: interventional
• Phase: not applicable
• Allocation: RANDOMIZED
• Masking: SINGLE
• Who Masked: PARTICIPANT
• Purpose: TREATMENT
• Intervention Model: PARALLEL
• Sponsor Type: OTHER
• Responsible Party: SPONSOR

Study Record Dates

• First Submitted: June 1, 2026
• First Posted: July 22, 2026
• Study Start: June 5, 2026
• Primary Completion (Estimated): August 6, 2026
• Study Completion (Estimated): August 6, 2026
• Last Updated: July 22, 2026

Record last verified: 2026-07

Data Sharing

• IPD Sharing: Will not share

Locations

PA (1)