Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Enhances Dual-task Performance in Stroke

Launched by THE HONG KONG POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY · Feb 4, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a treatment called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to see if it can help improve walking and thinking at the same time in people who have had a stroke. After a stroke, many individuals experience challenges with walking and managing cognitive tasks, like remembering words or numbers. In this study, participants will receive either real or fake tDCS for 30 minutes, and then their walking speed and ability to perform tasks while walking will be measured. The goal is to find out if tDCS can help reduce the difficulties people face when trying to walk and think at the same time, potentially improving their daily life and overall quality of life.

To be eligible for this study, participants must be between 50 and 80 years old, have had their first stroke at least six months ago, and be able to walk independently for at least 10 meters. Participants will be asked to attend two sessions, spaced about a week apart, where they will undergo the stimulation. It’s important to note that individuals with certain medical conditions or a history of specific health issues may not be able to participate. The results of this trial could lead to new ways to help stroke survivors regain their mobility and improve their ability to perform everyday tasks.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • age between 50 and 80 years
• • at least 6 months post-first-ever stroke with unilateral motor deficits
• • ability to walk independently for at least 10 m without the use of walking aids
• • a score of 24 or higher on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE)
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • unstable medical conditions, such as heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension, or cancer
• • presence of other comorbidities that could interfere with gait
• • history of contraindications to tDCS, such as epilepsy or metal implants
• • history of head injury, head surgery, or lower limb orthopedic issues