University Retirees Volunteer Center

The Movement Control and Rehabilitation (MCR) Lab Seeking Volunteers for Stroke Study

The Movement Control and Rehabilitation (MCR) Lab is interested in exploring fundamental questions about the neural basis of movement control. The motivation for the research is to develop non-invasive and targeted strategies for movement rehabilitation in individuals with movement disorders and impairments.

Researchers at the MCR Lab are seeking adult stroke survivors for a research study. The study focuses on how stroke impacts hand and arm movements and how this affects daily activities.

Volunteer Eligibility:

Eligibility Criteria:

• • More than 3 months post stroke
  • Has had a stroke on only one side of the brain
  • Ability to independently understand and follow written and verbal instructions
  • Ability to transfer loads independently or with assistance from caregiver
• Lab staff will contact potential participant and conduct a confidential phone screen approximately 15 minutes to determine eligibility.

Details of Volunteer Activities:

• Participants will need to provide verbal consent for review medical history and medical records, including results from an MRI scan.
• If needed, participants will be asked to undergo an MRI scan at the University of Minnesota’s Center for Magnetic Resonance Research Lab.
  • The procedure and costs will be managed by the study team.
• Participants will need to attend a 2.5-3 hour study session where they will:
  • provide consent
  • complete a series of assessments including cognitive screen, UE functioning and more.
  • engage in a virtual reality session using less-affected arm with tasks such as reaching with their arm and reaching with a cognitive load.

Dates, Times, and Location:

• One individual session is scheduled based on participant’s availability and lab staffing schedule.
• An MRI scan will be conducted only if patient cannot provide access to previous MRI records.
• The study will take place at the University of Minnesota Twin Cities Children’s Rehabilitation Center

What to Wear:

• Short sleeved T-shirt
• Comfortable Clothing

Parking/Transportation:

• Parking is available at the East River Road Parking Ramp, 385 E River Pkwy, Minneapolis, MN 55455.
• Parking is paid for.
• If needed, transportation can be covered.

Volunteer food/beverage availability: Participants will be offered a small snack and water.

Volunteer Compensation: Participants will receive $60 for lab visit. If an MRI is needed, participants will receive an additional $25.

To register for this study, contact Michele Darger, Research Coordinator

by email at mcrlab@umn.edu

*Please indicate at registration whether you are a URVC/UMRA volunteer.