Explore the Effects of Cortical Priming on Visuomotor Stepping Learning in Persons With Chronic Stroke

Launched by THE UNIVERSITY OF TEXAS MEDICAL BRANCH, GALVESTON · Nov 6, 2024

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at how brain stimulation might help people who have had a stroke learn to improve their leg movements. The researchers want to see if this technique can be beneficial for individuals with chronic stroke, which means they had their stroke more than six months ago. The study will include both healthy adults and those who have experienced a stroke, to compare how brain stimulation affects learning in both groups.

To be eligible for the study, participants need to be between 21 and 90 years old and must have had a stroke that affects one side of their body. They should be able to walk independently for a short distance and stand without help for at least 30 seconds. However, people who are pregnant, have certain brain conditions, or significant cognitive difficulties will not be able to participate. If someone joins the study, they can expect to take part in exercises aimed at improving their ability to step and move, while also receiving brain stimulation to see if it helps their learning process. This research could provide valuable insights into recovery after a stroke.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age between 21 and 90 years
• • 2. Medical history of a unilateral stroke occurring ≥ 6 months prior to enrollment
• • 3. MRI or CT evidence from the imaging report shown that the stroke involves the corticospinal tract
• • 4. Hemiparesis involving the lower extremity (Fulg-Meyer LE motor test)
• • 5. No passive range of motion limitation in bilateral hips and knees
• • 6. Limitation of ankle passive range of motion to 10 degrees of dorsiflexion or less
• • 7. Visual acuity can be corrected by glasses or contact lens to 20/20
• • 8. Able to walk independently with/without assistant devices for 10 meters
• • 9. Able to maintain standing position without any assistance \> 30 sec (Short Physical Performance Battery)
• • 10. Evaluation of cognitive status: Mini-mental status examination (MMSE) score ≥ 24
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Pregnant women
• • 2. MRI or CT evidence of involvement of the basal ganglia or cerebellum, evidence of multiple lesions, or evidence of any other brain damage or malignant neoplasm or tumors
• • 3. Have any metal implants, cardiac pacemakers, or history of seizures
• • 4. Ongoing orthopedic or other neuromuscular disorders that will restrict exercise training
• • 5. Any vestibular dysfunction or unstable angina
• • 6. Significant cognitive deficits (inability to follow a 2-step command) or severe receptive or global aphasia\*