Using electrical stimulation and therapy to improve language after a stroke
Electrical Field Guided TMS and Constraint Induced Language Therapy to TreatPost-Stroke Aphasia in the Subacute Stage
This study is looking at how a special type of brain stimulation combined with a speech therapy can help people with language difficulties after a stroke, and it’s for anyone who has aphasia and wants to improve their communication skills.
Quick facts
| Grant type | R01 grant |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Pennsylvania NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Philadelphia, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10803640 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the combined effects of continuous Theta Burst Stimulation (a type of electrical stimulation) and a modified form of Constraint Induced Language Therapy on patients with aphasia following a stroke. The study will involve 63 participants who will be randomly assigned to receive either the active treatment or a sham treatment over a period of 10 days. Evaluations will be conducted before treatment, shortly after, and again four months later to assess improvements in language function. The approach aims to personalize treatment based on individual brain responses and identify predictors of success.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing subacute aphasia following a stroke.
Not a fit: Patients who are not in the subacute stage of aphasia or those with chronic aphasia may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly enhance language recovery in stroke patients suffering from aphasia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using TMS for chronic aphasia, but this approach in the subacute stage is relatively novel.
Where this research is happening
Philadelphia, United States
- University of Pennsylvania — Philadelphia, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Coslett, H Branch — University of Pennsylvania
- Study coordinator: Coslett, H Branch
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 below.