Effects of brain stimulation on leg skill learning 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 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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

Similar studies

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

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

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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.