Comparative Effectiveness of Ipsilesional High-frequency rTMS, Contralesional Continuous Burst Theta rTMS, and Sham rTMS, Each Combined With Physiotherapy, in Subacute Ischemic Stroke Upper Limb Recovery : Clinical, Neurophysiological and Radiological

Launched by ASSIUT UNIVERSITY · Jan 23, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying different types of brain stimulation techniques to see how well they help people recover movement and thinking skills after having a stroke. Specifically, it compares three methods: one that targets the same side of the brain as the stroke (high-frequency rTMS), one that targets the opposite side (continuous burst theta rTMS), and a placebo treatment that doesn’t involve real stimulation (sham rTMS). All these methods will be used alongside physiotherapy to see which one works best for improving recovery in patients who had their first-ever ischemic stroke, which is a type of stroke caused by a blockage of blood flow to the brain.

To be eligible for the trial, participants should be between 18 and 80 years old, have experienced a stroke affecting the non-dominant side of the brain within the last two weeks, and be able to follow the study instructions. However, those with other types of strokes, severe cognitive issues, or certain medical conditions may not qualify. If you join the study, you can expect to receive one of the stimulation methods along with physiotherapy, and the researchers will closely monitor your progress. This trial is not yet recruiting participants, so keep an eye out for updates if you or a loved one are interested in participating.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • First-ever ischemic stroke, confirmed by imaging.
• • Stroke affecting the non-dominant hemisphere (cortical or subcortical) within the middle cerebral artery (MCA) territory.
• • Acute to subacute stage of stroke (time since onset: 48 hours to 2 weeks).
• • Ability to comply with the study protocol and interventions.
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Hemorrhagic stroke or bilateral stroke.
• • Severe cognitive impairment, defined as a Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) score \< 10.
• • Contraindications to TMS, such as: History of epilepsy, Metallic implants in the head, Other contraindications based on TMS safety guidelines.
• • Comorbid conditions that limit participation in rehabilitation.
• • Severe neglect or aphasia that would impede participation in therapy.