tDCS and Bimanual Therapy for Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy

Launched by BURKE MEDICAL RESEARCH INSTITUTE · Jan 17, 2018

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how effective a treatment called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with bimanual therapy is for improving hand function in children with a type of cerebral palsy known as unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP). In this study, children will be randomly assigned to receive either real stimulation with tDCS along with bimanual training or a placebo (sham) version of tDCS with the same training. The goal is to see if the active treatment makes a difference in how well children can use their affected hand.

To join this trial, children must be diagnosed with congenital hemiplegic cerebral palsy and be able to lift and grasp light objects with their affected hand. They should also be able to extend their wrist a little and follow instructions. Unfortunately, children who have had seizures after the age of two, received certain medications for spasticity recently, or undergone specific surgeries on their affected arm won't be eligible. If your child participates, they can expect to receive either the active treatment or a placebo, and there will be trained professionals to guide them through the sessions. This study is currently looking for participants, and it aims to find new ways to help improve hand function for children with this condition.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosis of congenital hemiplegic cerebral palsy
• • Ability to lift and grasp light objects with affected hand
• • Ability to extend wrist of affected hand 15 degrees
• • Ability to follow instructions and provide informed assent
• • Parent(s) able to provide informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Seizures after age 2 years
• • Spasticity medication within 6 months before study
• • Selective dorsal rhizotomy
• • Surgery in affected upper extremity within year before study