Effects Of Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation With Virtual Reality In Post-Stroke Patients

Launched by RIPHAH INTERNATIONAL UNIVERSITY · Oct 8, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying the effects of a new treatment combining Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (TVNS) and Virtual Reality (VR) on improving arm and hand function in patients who have had a stroke. After a stroke, many people experience difficulty using their arms and hands, and this study aims to see if this innovative approach can help. Participants will be divided into two groups: one group will receive TVNS along with virtual reality exercises and regular physical therapy, while the other group will receive TVNS and standard physical therapy. The trial will take place over four weeks, with patients attending sessions that last about an hour each time.

To participate in the study, individuals must have had an ischemic stroke (a type of stroke caused by a blockage) for at least six months and be able to follow verbal instructions. They should also be mentally capable, as determined by a simple cognitive test. However, those with certain health issues, such as previous surgeries on the vagus nerve or serious heart conditions, will not be eligible. Throughout the trial, participants will be assessed on their hand skills, arm function, and overall quality of life at the beginning, after two weeks, at the end of the four weeks, and again eight weeks later. This research could provide valuable insights into new ways to help stroke survivors regain their independence and improve their daily lives.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Patients with ischemic stroke at least more than 6 months.
• • Patients having Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score 26/30
• • Patients able to follow and accept verbal instruction
• • patients with normal sympathetic acitivity.
• Exclusion criteria:
• • Patients with history of previous surgical intervention on vagus nerve
• • Patients having low heart rate 60 bpm
• • Patients with history of any visual and hearing problem
• • Patients with history of neuromuscular disorder affecting the function of upper limbs .
• • Patients with advance liver,kidney,cardiac ,pulmonary disease
• • Patients with history of orthopedic surgery and botulinum toxin injection.
• • Patients with increase sympathetic activity.