Effects of brain stimulation on leg skill learning in stroke patients
An Exploratory Study: The Effects of Cortical Priming on Visuomotor Stepping Learning in Healthy Adults and Persons With Chronic Stroke
This study tests if a type of brain stimulation can help stroke patients learn to move their legs better compared to healthy adults.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 108 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 90 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The University of Texas Medical Branch, Galveston Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Galveston, Texas) |
| Trial ID | NCT06681207 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This research explores how anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (a-tDCS) can enhance visuomotor stepping learning in individuals who have experienced a chronic stroke. The study aims to understand the relationship between brain stimulation and the ability to learn leg movements, comparing results between healthy adults and those with a history of stroke. Participants will undergo assessments to ensure they meet specific eligibility criteria related to their stroke history and physical capabilities.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 21 to 90 who have experienced a unilateral stroke at least six months prior and have specific mobility limitations.
Not a fit: Patients with significant brain damage beyond the corticospinal tract or those with multiple lesions may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved rehabilitation strategies for stroke patients, enhancing their mobility and quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies using brain stimulation techniques have shown promise in improving motor function in stroke patients, suggesting potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age between 21 and 90 years 2. Medical history of a unilateral stroke occurring ≥ 6 months prior to enrollment 3. MRI or CT evidence from the imaging report shown that the stroke involves the corticospinal tract 4. Hemiparesis involving the lower extremity (Fulg-Meyer LE motor test) 5. No passive range of motion limitation in bilateral hips and knees 6. Limitation of ankle passive range of motion to 10 degrees of dorsiflexion or less 7. Visual acuity can be corrected by glasses or contact lens to 20/20 8. Able to walk independently with/without assistant devices for 10 meters 9. Able to maintain standing position without any assistance \> 30 sec (Short Physical Performance Battery) 10. Evaluation of cognitive status: Mini-mental status examination (MMSE) score ≥ 24 Exclusion Criteria: 1. Pregnant women 2. MRI or CT evidence of involvement of the basal ganglia or cerebellum, evidence of multiple lesions, or evidence of any other brain damage or malignant neoplasm or tumors 3. Have any metal implants, cardiac pacemakers, or history of seizures 4. Ongoing orthopedic or other neuromuscular disorders that will restrict exercise training 5. Any vestibular dysfunction or unstable angina 6. Significant cognitive deficits (inability to follow a 2-step command) or severe receptive or global aphasia\*
Where this trial is running
Galveston, Texas
- Physical Therapy, University of Texas Medical Branch — Galveston, Texas, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Shih-Chiao Tseng, PT, PhD — University of Texas
- Study coordinator: Shih-Chiao Tseng, PT, PhD
- Email: shtseng@utmb.edu
- Phone: 409--772-9555
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.