Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation and Rehabilitation to Ameliorate Impairments in Neurocognition After Stroke

Launched by UNIVERSITY OF PENNSYLVANIA · May 20, 2021

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring whether a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), when combined with traditional cognitive therapy, can help improve thinking and memory skills in patients who have experienced a stroke. The study is particularly focused on individuals who have had an ischemic stroke (which is caused by a blockage in the blood vessels in the brain) and are experiencing cognitive impairment within four weeks of their stroke.

To participate, individuals need to be between 18 and 90 years old and must be able to understand the study and follow simple directions. However, those with a history of serious neurological conditions, unstable medical illnesses, seizures, or active psychiatric disorders, among other criteria, would not be eligible. Participants can expect to engage in sessions that involve both brain stimulation and cognitive therapy, aimed at helping them regain cognitive function after their stroke. The study is currently recruiting participants, and it aims to provide valuable insights into potential new treatments for cognitive issues following a stroke.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Stroke that occurred within 4 weeks of the study
• • Presence of cognitive impairment attributable to stroke
• • Between the ages of 18 and 90
• • Able to understand the nature of the study and give informed consent
• • Able to follow simple commands as evidenced by NIHSS subtest 1C =0
• • Exclusion Criteria
• • History of chronic, serious, or unstable neurologic illness other than stroke
• • Current unstable medical illness(es)
• • History of reoccurring seizures or epilepsy
• • Current abuse of alcohol or drugs (prescription or otherwise)
• • Active and severe psychiatric disorder
• • Metallic objects in the face or head other than dental apparatus such as braces, fillings, and implants.
• • Pregnancy