TENS for Limb Function in Stroke: Design and Rationale for a Randomized Trial

Launched by CHENGNING SONG · May 21, 2025

Keywords

ClinConnect Summary

This clinical trial is looking at whether different speeds of electrical nerve stimulation, known as TENS, can help improve arm movement in people recovering from a stroke. Participants will receive TENS treatment on their weaker arm three times a week for eight weeks. The goal is to find out which TENS setting works best to support recovery after a stroke.

To be eligible for this study, participants should be between 18 and 85 years old and must have had a stroke within the past 10 days to 2 months. They need to have some movement in their non-weak arm and at least a little movement in their weak arm's shoulder. Participants must also be able to provide consent to join the study. This trial is not yet recruiting, so it’s a good time to learn more if you think you or someone you know might be interested!

Gender

ALL

Eligibility criteria

• Inclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Age 18 to 85 years
• • 2. Clinical diagnosis of stroke (ischemic or hemorrhagic) within the past 10 days to 2 months
• • 3. Presence of voluntary movement in the non-paretic arm and at least minimal antigravity movement in the paretic shoulder
• • 4. At least 5 degrees of active wrist extension on the paretic side
• • 5. Able to provide informed consent
• Exclusion Criteria:
• • 1. Uncontrolled medical, cardiovascular, or orthopedic conditions
• • 2. Contraindications to TENS (e.g., implanted cardiac pacemaker, skin allergies)
• • 3. Receptive aphasia preventing informed consent or cooperation
• • 4. Significant peripheral neuropathy affecting upper limbs
• • 5. Current participation in another clinical trial or drug study
• • 6. Severe contractures in the shoulder, elbow, wrist, or fingers