COgnitive-somatoSensory-MOtor Training to Improve Arm and Hand Function After Stroke (iCOSMO)

The iCOSMO study investigates the feasibility and beneficial effects of an intervention combining sensation, motor and cognition to improve arm and hand function after chronic stroke.

The iCOSMO is a two-arm randomized controlled trial study evaluating the feasibility and efficacy of combined somatosensory-motor intervention using a cognitive approach to improve upper limb recovery in people with chronic stroke. Forty participants will be recruited (20 in experimental group and 20 in the control group). iCOSMO will include active touch and movement exploratory procedures during goal-oriented tasks as well as robotic training using the Kinarm Exoskeleton device. The experimental group will receive a total of 36 hours of treatment (6 weeks). The control group will receive a matched dose of a home-based motor exercise programme. The outcome measures will include measures of feasibility such as the recruitment and adherence rates and standardised clinical and robotic assessments. The participants will be tested at the start and end of the baseline phase, at post-intervention and at 1-month follow-up.