The Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on Dyspnoea Perception, Pulmonary Function and Functional Level During COPD Exacerbation

Launched by OKAN UNIVERSITY · Apr 17, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is studying a treatment called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to see if it can help improve breathing difficulties (dyspnea) in patients with chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) during flare-ups. COPD is a lung condition that makes it hard to breathe and can limit daily activities. The researchers believe that tDCS, which is a painless, non-invasive technique that uses mild electrical currents to stimulate certain areas of the brain, may help reduce the perception of dyspnea and improve lung function and overall physical ability during these challenging times.

To be eligible for this trial, participants must be at least 18 years old, have a diagnosis of COPD for at least six months, and be currently hospitalized due to a COPD flare-up. They should not have had any medications that affect the nervous system in the last six months and must be able to cooperate with the study procedures. Participants will be divided into two groups: one will receive tDCS along with standard physiotherapy, while the other will receive a sham (placebo) treatment with physiotherapy. Throughout the study, various assessments will be conducted to measure changes in breathing, lung function, muscle strength, and overall well-being. This trial aims to provide new insights and treatment options for COPD patients facing exacerbations.

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • Diagnosed with COPD and followed up for at least 6 months
• • Hospitalised due to an exacerbation
• • Have not taken any medication affecting the nervous system in the last 6 months
• • Co-operative
• • Have the ability to participate in working procedures
• • Over 18 years of age,
• • The specialist physician finds it suitable for physiotherapy applications,
• • Volunteers who want to participate in the study
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • Having comorbidities other than COPD, such as bronchiectasis, lung cancer or asthma
• • Surgery in the last 6 months (volume reduction surgery, etc.)
• • Neuromuscular disease
• • Pulmonary embolism or pulmonary oedema
• • Presence of cranial, cardiac, spinal cord, intra-aural metal implants
• • Epilepsy
• • Patients on invasive mechanical ventilation
• • Patient with cardiac pace maker