Improving motor learning with expectations and tDCS
Effects of Modulating Expectations About Noninvasive Brain Stimulation on Motor Learning
This study is testing if getting people to expect better results from a brain stimulation technique called tDCS can help them learn new motor skills more effectively.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 128 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Arizona State University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Tempe, Arizona) |
| Trial ID | NCT06039605 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates whether priming expectations about transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) can enhance its effectiveness in improving motor learning. tDCS is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that is being explored for its potential in neurorehabilitation and skill enhancement. The research aims to understand the role of placebo effects in the perceived efficacy of tDCS, particularly in motor learning contexts. By examining how expectations change based on information about tDCS, the study seeks to clarify the inconsistencies observed in previous findings related to this intervention.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are right-hand dominant adults aged 18 or older.
Not a fit: Patients who are left-hand dominant, mixed-handed, or have certain medical conditions such as seizures or head injuries may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to more effective applications of tDCS in enhancing motor learning and rehabilitation.
How similar studies have performed: While tDCS has been studied for its effects on motor learning, the specific approach of examining expectations and placebo effects is relatively novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Must be 18 or older. Right-hand dominant * Right-hand dominant Exclusion Criteria: * Mixed-handed or ambidextrous * Left-hand dominant * Seizure(s) * Head injury resulting in a loss of consciousness that has required further investigation (including neurosurgery) * Migraines * Current medical diagnosis of a phycological or neurological condition * Any metal in head (outside of mouth) such as shrapnel or surgical clips * Any implanted devices (e.g. cardiac pacemaker, brain stimulator) * Skin condition on scalp (e.g. psoriasis) * Head wound that has not completely healed * Adverse reactions to tDCS or any other brain stimulation technique (e.g. TMS, tRNS) * Pregnant * Currently taking prescription medications or are self-medicating (including recreational drug use), other than the contraceptive pill?
Where this trial is running
Tempe, Arizona
- Arizona State University — Tempe, Arizona, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sydney Schaefer, PhD — Arizona State University
- Study coordinator: Sydney Schaefer, PhD
- Email: Sydney.Schaefer@asu.edu
- Phone: 480-727-6651
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.