Ear vagus nerve stimulation plus TENS to improve arm movement after stroke

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 is a blinded, randomized controlled trial that pairs transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) with task‑oriented training for upper limb recovery after stroke. Participants are randomized to active or sham versions of the peripheral and auricular stimulations while performing repetitive, goal‑directed arm tasks. Eligible participants are 55–75 years old, at least six months post‑stroke, and have some preserved shoulder and wrist movement. Outcomes will focus on changes in motor function of the paretic upper limb over the intervention period.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

1. aged 55 - 75 years old;
2. diagnosed with stroke confirmed by magnetic resonance imaging or computed tomography for more than 6 months;
3. had volitional control of the non-paretic arm and at least minimal antigravity movement in the paretic shoulder;
4. had at least 5 degrees of wrist extension in the antigravity position;
5. be able to communicate

Exclusion Criteria:

1. had neurological disease other than stroke, e.g., Parkinson's disease or dementia;
2. ongoing healthy condition, e.g., angina pectoris, pain, or arthritis;
3. had any contraindications of taVNS (metal implants in the brain, history of seizure)

Where it's running

• The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
  Kowloon, Hong Kong Recruiting

Study contacts

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

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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.