Comparing the Attentional Demands and Functional Outcomes in People With Transradial Amputation
Comparing the Attentional Demands and Functional Outcomes of Pattern Recognition and Direct Myoelectric Control in People With Transradial Amputation
Virginia Commonwealth University
32 participants
May 1, 2026
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
Different ways of controlling an upper-limb prosthesis can affect how easy it is to use and how helpful it is in everyday activities. One common method, called direct control, uses signals from two muscles and can make switching between movements difficult. Another clinically available option, called pattern recognition control, uses signals from several muscles to better understand the user's intended movement and may feel more natural to use. This study compares these two control methods to see how they affect function for adults with below-the-elbow limb loss.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria7
- years of age or older
- Unilateral transradial limb loss
- At least 6 months since loss
- Previous or current use of a myoelectric device for 3 months or longer
- Use of a prosthesis at least 4 days each week
- Ability to read, write, and understand English
- Willingness to use each control strategy as primary device for 3 months each (6 months commitment total)
Exclusion Criteria2
- Any health condition that would prevent safely completing trial activities
- Discontinued use of a myoelectric prosthesis due to non-financial reasons
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Interventions
All participants will receive in-person training with an onsite study prosthetist for the assigned controller strategy. The purpose of the training will be to instruct users on the care of the device formally and to achieve a basic level of functional performance. Training will be individualized according to clinical discretion consistent with clinical practice. Training will consist of up to four sessions to facilitate participants' use of the assigned controller system. The number of sessions will be competency-based (i.e., determined by the ability of each participant to explain or perform specified tasks). A standardized protocol and training checklist have been developed by clinical subject matter experts (i.e., upper limb prosthetists and occupational therapists).
All participants will receive in-person training with an onsite study prosthetist for the assigned controller strategy. The purpose of the training will be to instruct users on the care of the device formally and to achieve a basic level of functional performance. Training will be individualized according to clinical discretion consistent with clinical practice. Training will consist of up to four sessions to facilitate participants' use of the assigned controller system. The number of sessions will be competency-based (i.e., determined by the ability of each participant to explain or perform specified tasks). A standardized protocol and training checklist have been developed by clinical subject matter experts (i.e., upper limb prosthetists and occupational therapists).
After the training sessions, all subjects will use the PRC device in their homes, just in a different order.
After the training sessions, all subjects will use the DC device in their homes, just in a different order.
Locations(2)
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NCT07075042