Improving reading skills in stroke survivors using brain feedback techniques
Official title: Rehabilitation of Reading Deficits in Subacute Stroke using fMRI Neurofeedback and Motor Imagery
Funded at Kessler Foundation, INC. · NIH-10877022 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is exploring new ways to help stroke survivors improve their reading skills using a special brain training technique that shows them how to control their brain activity while they practice, making it easier for them to regain their reading abilities.
Quick facts
| Grant type | Career grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | Kessler Foundation, INC. NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (East Hanover, UNITED STATES) |
| Project start | July 1, 2021 |
| Project end | June 30, 2026 |
| Funding year | 2024 |
| Award (this year) | $129,301 |
| NIH project number | 5K01DC019178-04 |
| Project ID | NIH-10877022 on NIH RePORTER |
Who could benefit from this research
✓Could help
Ideal candidates for this research are stroke survivors experiencing reading and language deficits, particularly those with left-hemisphere damage.
✕Less likely to help
Patients who have not experienced a stroke or those with reading deficits due to non-stroke-related conditions may not benefit from this research.
What this research studies
This research investigates innovative methods to help stroke survivors regain reading abilities that are often impaired after a left-hemisphere stroke. It utilizes real-time functional Magnetic Resonance Imaging (fMRI) neurofeedback, allowing participants to learn how to control their brain activity while engaging in mental exercises. By combining motor imagery techniques with brain activity feedback, the study aims to enhance the brain's plasticity and improve reading outcomes. The approach is designed to create lasting improvements that extend beyond traditional therapy methods.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance reading and language skills in stroke survivors, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have gone: Preliminary evidence suggests that similar neurofeedback approaches have shown promise in improving cognitive and motor functions post-stroke, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Where this research is happening
-
Kessler Foundation, INC.
East Hanover, United States Active
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Boukrina, Olga — Kessler Foundation, INC.
- Study coordinator: Boukrina, Olga
Related research
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About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page.