Determine the Effect of Targeted High-definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Reducing Post-stroke Upper Limb Motor Impairments

Launched by CARLE FOUNDATION HOSPITAL · Jul 26, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is investigating a new treatment called targeted high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to help improve movement in the arms of people who have experienced a stroke. After a stroke, many individuals face challenges with arm movement, particularly with their ability to control and use their affected limb. The study aims to see if this specialized stimulation can reduce certain issues related to brain activity that contribute to these movement problems. Researchers believe that by adjusting brain activity in specific areas, they can help improve motor function in the affected arm.

To participate in this trial, individuals need to be between 18 and 80 years old and have weakness in one arm due to a stroke. They should be able to understand and consent to the treatment. However, people with severe issues in their other arm, serious cognitive problems, or certain medical conditions, such as having a pacemaker or metal implants in the head, will not be eligible. Participants can expect to undergo a series of stimulation sessions, during which researchers will monitor their progress in improving arm movement. This study is currently recruiting participants, and taking part could provide valuable insights into new ways to help stroke survivors regain their arm function.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Paresis confined to one side, with substantial motor impairment of the paretic upper limb
• • Capacity to provide informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Muscle tone abnormalities and motor or sensory impairment in the non-paretic limb
• • Severe wasting or contracture or significant sensory deficits in the paretic upper limb
• • Severe cognitive or affective dysfunction that prevents normal communication and understanding of consent or instruction
• • Severe concurrent medical problems (e.g. cardiorespiratory impairment)
• • Using a pacemaker
• • Metal implants in the head
• • Known adverse reactions to TMS and tDCS
• • Pregnant