CompletedPhase IInterventional

Evaluating the ability to recover finger extension with a wearable treatment ('PowerBead')

This study is testing a new wearable device, called 'PowerBead', aimed at helping people who have had a stroke and struggle to move their fingers. About 32,000 people in the UK each year are affected this way. The device works by giving gentle small taps on the forearm and a soft click sound in one ear. Researchers want to see if these signals can help the brain and nerves reconnect, making it easier to straighten fingers. They will also check if the device is safe and simple enough for people to use at home in the future. Both healthy volunteers and stroke survivors are invited to take part.

At a glance

Status

Completed

Phase

Phase I

Sponsor

University College London

Enrolment target

Start

08 Aug 2025

Estimated completion

31 Jan 2026

Recovery of finger extension post-stroke with survivors who are moderately to severely impaired

What is this study about?

This study is looking at an exciting new device called 'PowerBead' that could help people who have had a stroke and find it difficult to move their fingers. After a stroke, it's common for some movements to become harder, and this device is designed to give the brain a little extra help to relearn how to control finger movements. About 32,000 people in the UK each year experience this challenge, so finding new ways to help is really important.

The 'PowerBead' device is worn on the body and works by giving two very gentle signals: a small, soft tap on your forearm and a quiet clicking sound that you hear in one ear. The idea is that these gentle prompts might encourage your brain and nerves to form new connections, making it easier for you to straighten your fingers. Researchers will be observing closely to see if using this device leads to better hand and finger movement.

Beyond seeing if it helps, the study also wants to make sure the 'PowerBead' is safe and easy to use. This first stage of testing is important to understand how well the device works and if it could eventually be something that people could use comfortably at home to help with their recovery. The study is run by University College London and is supported by UK funding.

Key takeaways

New wearable device for stroke survivors to help finger movement.
Uses gentle taps and clicks to stimulate the brain.
One 4-hour visit to University College London.
Aims to check safety and how easy it is to use.
Potential for improved hand function, but not guaranteed.
Funded by the UK National Institute for Health and Care Research.

Who may be eligible?

This study is looking for two main groups of people. Firstly, healthy volunteers aged between 18 and 75 who can speak English clearly and have normal or corrected vision. They should not have any serious ongoing health issues, be pregnant, or have metal in their body in certain areas like the brain or forearm. They also shouldn't have conditions like epilepsy or issues with their hearing.

Secondly, the study welcomes stroke survivors aged 18 to 75. Like the healthy volunteers, they need to speak English, have normal or corrected vision, and not be pregnant. They must have had their stroke more than six months ago and no longer be receiving regular NHS support for their arm. Their arm function will be assessed to ensure it falls within a certain range of moderate difficulty with movement.

This study is not suitable for people with certain conditions, such as those with pacemakers, severe skin conditions, issues with blood clotting, or other serious brain or nerve disorders apart from their stroke. If you have metal in your brain, skull, or forearm, or experience ringing in your ears (tinnitus), you would also not be able to join. The researchers need to ensure everyone can take part safely.

Could this study suit you?

Answer these quick questions to see if you may be eligible. This is a guide only — the research team makes the final call.

Are you between 18 and 75 years old?
Can you speak and understand English well?
Do you have normal or corrected vision (with glasses/contacts)?
If you've had a stroke, was it more than six months ago?
If you've had a stroke, are you currently discharged from NHS arm support?
Do you NOT have metal implants in your brain, skull, or forearm?

Answer every question to see your result.

What does participation involve?

If you decide to join this study, you will have one single visit to University College London. During this visit, you'll wear the 'PowerBead' device for about four hours. While you're wearing it, the device will be giving you those gentle taps and clicks mentioned earlier. Before and after this session, the researchers will take some measurements to see how your muscles are working and how well you can move your hand and fingers. You'll also be asked to share your thoughts on how easy and comfortable the device was to use. There are no medications involved in this study, no surgery, and no invasive procedures. The study is expected to run from August 2025 to February 2026.

Potential risks and benefits

It's possible that using the 'PowerBead' device could help improve your hand movement, but this is not guaranteed, as this is a new treatment being tested. The main risk involved is that you might feel some mild discomfort from wearing the device or from the tests performed during the session. However, the researchers will be carefully monitoring you to make sure you are comfortable. There's no surgery or any invasive procedures involved in this study. Remember that if you choose to take part, you are free to withdraw from the study at any time without giving a reason.

Locations (1)

University College London
Approximate
London, England

Common questions

What is the 'PowerBead' device?

It's a new wearable device that gives gentle taps on the forearm and clicks in the ear to help stroke survivors improve finger movement.

How long will I need to be at the study center?

You will attend one session lasting about four hours at University College London.

Will I receive treatment for my stroke?

This is a research study to see if the device helps. It's not a guaranteed treatment for your stroke.

Who is paying for this research?

The study is funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research (NIHR) in the UK.

Can I still participate if I use glasses or contact lenses?

Yes, if your vision is normal with correction (glasses or contact lenses), you can still participate.

How to find out more

Laura Salisbury

laura@knitregen.com +44 7714464504 Official trial record

Always speak to your GP or specialist before deciding to take part in a study.