Different ways to use non-invasive brain stimulation to help stroke recovery

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 non-randomized study aims to refine and confirm non-invasive brain stimulation protocols for motor and language deficits after stroke. About 250 participants from Alexandra Hospital and National University Hospital will undergo a baseline assessment, followed by a month of NIBS treatment using either tDCS or rTMS based on rehabilitation goals and individual assessments. The treatment plan assigns 20 sessions of tDCS or 12 sessions of rTMS tailored to goals such as improving limb movement or alleviating aphasia or neglect. Outcome measures are repeated after the final NIBS session to determine changes in function. The study seeks to clarify how patient stratification and protocol variation influence rehabilitation outcomes.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age 21-80 years old;
2. Diagnosis of stroke, with good premorbid function.
3. Presenting with at least 1 of the following functional impairment:

3a. Upper limb motor impairment with the sum of Medical Research Council grades for shoulder abduction and finger Extension (SAFE) ≤ 8; 3b. Lower limb motor impairment with Functional Ambulation Classification (FAC) 0-3; 3c. Neglect as assessed by Behavioural Inattention Test with a cut-off of \<129 and Catherine Bergego Scale with a cut-off of \>5/30 3d. Expressive Aphasia as indicated by AusTOMS score of 1-4 (mild to severe) in the Language and Speech scales 4. Being able to follow instruction and give consent.

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pregnancy;
2. cardiac pacemakers;
3. Sensorimotor disturbance due to other causes other than stroke;
4. Uncontrolled medical conditions including hypertension, diabetes mellitus and unstable angina;
5. Major depression and a history of psychotic disorders;
6. Terminal diagnosis with life expectancy \<=1 year;
7. Claustrophobia for those undergoing fMRI scan.
8. Cognitive impairment and not being able to follow instruction.

Where it's running

• National University Hospital
  Singapore, Singapore Recruiting
• Alexandra Hospital
  Singapore, Singapore Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Effie Chew — Nuh
• Study coordinator: Effie Chew, MBBS
• Email: effie_chew@nuhs.edu.sg
• Phone: 65-64722000

Similar studies

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

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• Web-based therapy using action observation and mirror therapy for arm weakness after stroke

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• Dual-task balance training plus computer-based cognitive training after stroke

  In adults who recently had a stroke, the study tests whether adding computerized cognitive exercises to balance training improves balance and other recovery outcomes.

  Recruiting Matia Foundation · San Sebastián, GUIPUZCOA · NCT07913620

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.