rTMS for Post-stroke Fatigue

Launched by VA OFFICE OF RESEARCH AND DEVELOPMENT · Oct 17, 2022

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is exploring a treatment called repetitive magnetic stimulation (rTMS) to help people who feel very tired after having a stroke. Fatigue is a common issue for stroke survivors and can make it hard to enjoy daily activities and social interactions. The researchers want to see if rTMS, which uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain, can reduce feelings of fatigue and improve mood and thinking abilities in these patients.

To be eligible for the trial, participants should be between 35 and 80 years old, have had their stroke at least six months ago, and be able to walk 10 meters without help. Unfortunately, those with certain medical conditions, like severe high blood pressure or other serious neurological issues, cannot participate. If someone joins the study, they will receive rTMS treatment and will be asked about their levels of fatigue and mood before and after the treatment. This trial is currently looking for participants, and it offers a chance to explore a new way to help manage post-stroke fatigue.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 35 - 80 years of age
• • more than 6 months post-stroke
• • able to walk 10m unassisted
• • Clinically present fatigue
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Contraindications to MRI/TMS/rTMS (e.g. implanted metal within the head, history of seizures)
• • Inability to follow simple three-step instructions
• • Multiple strokes on opposite hemispheres
• • Cerebellar and/or brainstem strokes
• • Diagnosed comorbid neurological conditions (e.g. multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, moderate/severe TBI)
• • Comorbid psychological conditions (e.g. depression, anxiety, PTSD)
• • strokes within stimulation sites
• • Pregnancy
• • Severe hypertension (resting SBP \> 200, DBP \> 120)