Assessing Upper Extremity Function in Chronic Stroke Survivors Through Acute Intermittent Hypoxia

Assessing Upper Extremity Function in Chronic Stroke Survivors: Enhancing Neural Recovery With Acute Intermittent Hypoxia

Here we aim to observe effects of acute intermittent hypoxia in persons who have experienced a single stroke. We have previously shown this technique to be safe and effective at increasing strength in persons with disabilities, and here are aiming to determine the mechanism of how the breathing method modulates motor function.

Here we aim to observe effects of acute intermittent hypoxia in persons who have experienced a single stroke. We have previously shown this technique to be safe and effective at increasing strength in persons with disabilities, and here are aiming to determine the mechanism of how the breathing method modulates motor function.

Inclusion Criteria:

• A first time, unilateral, ischemic, hemispheric stroke, confirmed by MRI
• Chedoke stage of hand assessment >= 3
• Ability to open and close affected hand
• Able to understand and communicate in english
• Able to independently consent
• over 6 months post stroke
• Must have a hemoglobin level above 10g/dl
• Must have ability to leave research visit with a compainon/group trasportation
• WOCBP must be comfortable confirming negative pregnancy prior to hypoxia
• Must not be involved in any other research intervention study testing upper extremities

Exclusion Criteria:

• History of prior neurological disorders
• Brain stem or cerebellar stroke; mean Fazekas score rated on initial fluid-attenuated inversion recovery MRI greater than equal to 3
• Severe Aphasisa
• Pre-existing hypoxic pulmonary disease
• Includes positive Covid-pneumonia diagnosis within 1 year of screening visit
• Severe hypertension (>160/100)
• Any ischemic cardiac disease