Enhancing speech rehabilitation for stroke patients using brain stimulation
Using tDCS in Speech-based Stroke Rehabilitation
This study is testing if combining speech therapy with a gentle brain stimulation technique can help stroke patients with speech difficulties improve their communication skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 99 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | NYU Langone Health Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (New York, New York and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT03452202 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study aims to explore the effectiveness of combining behavioral treatment for acquired speech impairment with transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in patients with apraxia of speech following a stroke. The approach involves delivering low-intensity electrical current to the scalp to potentially enhance speech motor learning, a method that has shown promise in other areas of stroke rehabilitation. Participants will undergo a series of single-case experimental designs to assess the impact of this combined treatment. The study focuses on right-handed, monolingual individuals who are at least six months post-stroke and have a clinical diagnosis of apraxia of speech.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are right-handed, monolingual English speakers who have experienced a single left-hemisphere stroke and are at least six months post-event.
Not a fit: Patients with laryngeal voice disorders, dysarthria, or a history of speech impairment prior to their stroke may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve speech rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients with apraxia of speech.
How similar studies have performed: While tDCS has shown success in enhancing motor learning in other rehabilitation domains, its application in speech motor learning is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Right-handed * Monolingual (English) * Single left-hemisphere CVA * A minimum of six months post-stroke * Clinical diagnosis of apraxia of speech * Normal speech perception * Passing score on the hearing screening. Exclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of laryngeal voice disorder * Dysarthria * History of speech impairment prior to CVA * Presence of potential tDCS risk factors: damaged skin at site of stimulation; * Presence of electrically or magnetically activated implant (including pacemaker); * metal in any part of their body; * history of medication-resistant epilepsy in the family; * past history of seizures or unexplained spells of loss of consciousness.
Where this trial is running
New York, New York and 1 other locations
- New York University School of Medicine — New York, New York, United States (Recruiting)
- Burke Rehabilitation Hospital — White Plains, New York, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Adam Buchwald, MD — NYU Langone Health
- Study coordinator: Buchwald Lab
- Email: buchwald-lab@nyu.edu
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.