Combining electrical stimulation techniques to improve lower limb function in stroke patients

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the effectiveness of combining transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) to enhance lower limb motor function in individuals who have experienced a stroke. Participants will undergo task-oriented training while receiving either active or sham stimulation to determine the best approach for improving ankle muscle strength, motor control, walking performance, and overall mobility. The study hypothesizes that the combination of anodal tDCS and Bi-TENS will yield superior results compared to other stimulation methods. The research aims to explore the potential synergetic effects of these interventions on rehabilitation outcomes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. are between 50 and 85 years of age;
2. have had a single stroke more than 6 months and less than 15 years;
3. have at least 5 degrees of active ankle dorsiflexion in the antigravity position;
4. are able to walk 10 m independently, with or without a walking aid;
5. are able to score 6 or higher out of 10 on the abbreviated mental test;
6. have no skin allergies (e.g. redness or itchiness after application of the electrical stimulation pads) to electrical stimulation or electrodes;
7. are able to follow instructions and give informed consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. have any additional medical, cardiovascular or orthopedic conditions that would hinder their treatment or assessment;
2. have a cardiac pacemaker;
3. have aphasia or cognitive difficulties that may interfere with their comprehension of instructions;
4. have had one or more epileptic seizures within the year prior to the date of inclusion in the study;
5. have an intracerebral metal clip;
6. have a major somatosensory deficit
7. have any contraindication to tDCS;
8. are currently involved in drug studies or other clinical trials.

Where it's running

• The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
  Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Shamay Ng, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
• Study coordinator: Shamay NG, PhD
• Email: shamay.ng@polyu.edu.hk
• Phone: +852 27664889

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.