Improving thinking after a concussion using gentle brain stimulation plus cognitive training
Official title: Targeting Neuroplasticity for Persistent Post-Concussive Cognitive Symptoms: A Trial of tDCS and Cognitive Training 3-12 Months Post-mTBI
Run by University of Minnesota · NCT07246993 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This trial will test whether pairing a mild, non-invasive brain stimulation (tDCS) with cognitive training can help adults who still have thinking problems 3–12 months after a mild concussion.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | March 5, 2026 |
| Main results expected | January 1, 2028 |
| Study ends | January 1, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | September 1, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07246993 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults 18–65 who had a single mild TBI 3–12 months ago, meet PPCS criteria by screening, and can reliably use a smartphone are ideal candidates.
✕Probably not a fit
People with prior moderate/severe TBI, major neurological or psychiatric disorders, recent substance dependence, or contraindications to tDCS are unlikely to benefit and are excluded.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
Participants with persistent post-concussive cognitive symptoms 3 to 12 months after a single mild traumatic brain injury will receive a program that pairs transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with computerized cognitive exercises. Individuals will be assigned to either active tDCS or sham (placebo) tDCS while completing the training, and outcomes will focus on cognitive function and day-to-day functioning. Enrollment requires adults aged 18–65 who meet criteria for persistent post-concussive syndrome and have reliable access to a smartphone. The intervention is offered through the University of Minnesota site in Minneapolis and follows standard safety exclusions for tDCS.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, the approach could reduce lingering cognitive symptoms and improve everyday functioning after a concussion.
How similar studies have gone: Small prior studies combining tDCS with cognitive training have shown promising but mixed improvements in cognitive outcomes, so the approach is experimental but has preliminary supporting evidence.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 18-65 * Has sustained a single mTBI 3-12 months prior to enrollment * Meets criteria for PPCS (assessed using the CP Screen) * Has reliable access to a smartphone Exclusion Criteria: * Inability to provide informed consent or complete study procedures * History of moderate/severe TBI * Significant neurological or psychiatric disorders (other than PPCS-related symptoms like mild depression/anxiety) * Substance dependence within the last six months * Contraindications to tDCS (e.g., implanted metal, skin lesions on scalp)
Where it's running
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University of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Jazmin Camchong, PhD — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Melanie Stimac
- Email: stima011@umn.edu
- Phone: 612-301-2549
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.