Improving thinking after a concussion using gentle brain stimulation plus cognitive training
Targeting Neuroplasticity for Persistent Post-Concussive Cognitive Symptoms: A Trial of tDCS and Cognitive Training 3-12 Months Post-mTBI
NA · University of Minnesota · NCT07246993
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
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Minnesota (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Minneapolis, Minnesota) |
| Trial ID | NCT07246993 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
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.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Minneapolis, Minnesota
- University of Minnesota — Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Kelvin Lim, MD — University of Minnesota
- Study coordinator: Melanie Stimac
- Email: stima011@umn.edu
- Phone: 612-301-2549
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.
Conditions: Persistent Post Concussion Syndrome, Mild Traumatic Brain Injury