Using brain stimulation to help reduce fatigue in stroke survivors

Neuromodulation for Rehabilitation of Post-Stroke Fatigue: An rTMS Pilot Study

NIH-funded research Ralph H Johnson VA Medical Center · NIH-11002636

This study is looking at how a special treatment called rTMS, which uses magnetic fields to stimulate the brain, might help people who have had a stroke feel less tired and improve their overall quality of life.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionRalph H Johnson VA Medical Center NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Charleston, United States)
Project IDNIH-11002636 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the use of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) as a potential treatment for fatigue experienced by individuals who have had a stroke. The approach involves applying magnetic fields to specific areas of the brain to modulate neural activity, which may help alleviate fatigue symptoms. Participants will undergo rTMS sessions while their responses are monitored to assess improvements in fatigue levels and overall quality of life. The study aims to gather data that could lead to more effective therapies for managing post-stroke fatigue.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults who have experienced a stroke and are currently dealing with significant fatigue.

Not a fit: Patients who have not had a stroke or those whose fatigue is unrelated to neurological conditions may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a new, non-invasive treatment option for stroke survivors suffering from debilitating fatigue.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results using rTMS for various neurological conditions, suggesting potential for success in this novel application for post-stroke fatigue.

Where this research is happening

Charleston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.