ABSTRACT NUMBER: ESOC2026OT187 ROBUST: INTEGRATED SENSORIMOTOR UPPER LIMB THERAPY FOR CHRONIC STROKE – RCT PROTOCOL

Abstract Background and aims Sensorimotor upper limb function, critical for functionality, is impaired in 67% of people with chronic stroke. Yet somatosensory integration remains under-addressed in rehabilitation. We previously evaluated the feasibility and preliminary effects of a novel sensorimotor therapy. The findings support the need for a RCT to evaluate the effects. Methods To investigate the clinical, kinematic, and neuroplastic effects of ROBUST, a novel integrated sensorimotor upper limb therapy, compared with standard care in people with chronic stroke. Results In this phase II RCT, we aim to recruit 58 people with chronic stroke and residual sensorimotor and functional impairments, who will be randomly allocated to a control or experimental group. The experimental group will receive a 48-hour ROBUST intervention in addition to their standard care over 5 weeks. ROBUST combines robotic, therapist-led, and home-based exercises. This intervention period will be followed by 4 weeks of standard care only (follow-up). The control group will receive standard care only over 5 weeks, also followed by a 4-week follow-up. The change scores will be compared between both groups, directly post-intervention and after the 4-week follow-up. Conclusions The primary outcome is the Action Research Arm Test. We will use a multi-level evaluation approach including clinical, kinematic (Kinarm robot) and patient-reported outcomes addressing all levels of the ICF. Furthermore, brain structure and function measures (fNIRS and MRI) will be used to give a comprehensive understanding. The assessments will be planned at baseline, directly post-intervention, and after the 4-week follow-up period. Conflict of interest