tACS for motor recovery after stroke
Official title: tACS Brain Neuromodulation for Sensory and Motor Recovery After Neurological Impairments
Run by The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston · NCT06029062 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) can help adults who are at least 6 months post-stroke regain finger movement.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 14 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Houston, Texas) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | September 1, 2025 |
| Main results expected | September 30, 2027 |
| Study ends | March 31, 2028 |
| Registry record updated | June 3, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06029062 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18–75 who are at least 6 months post-stroke, have a single unilateral stroke, and show some finger movement.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with significant visual, hearing, cognitive impairments, certain medical devices, or recent interventions in the arm may not benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
The trial explores using tACS at 10 Hz and 20 Hz, compared with sham stimulation, to improve motor function in stroke survivors. Participants must be 18–75 years old, medically stable, with a single unilateral stroke and visible finger flexor activation. Exclusion criteria include cognitive or sensory impairments, recent botulinum toxin or phenol injections, implants or pacemakers, musculoskeletal issues in the affected limb, and pregnancy. The study is conducted at the University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston, with the lead sponsor coordinating collaboration.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, participants may experience improved motor function in the affected hand after stroke.
How similar studies have gone: Prior work in noninvasive brain stimulation for stroke has shown potential benefits, but results vary and this approach remains investigational.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion/exclusion criteria for stroke subjects Inclusion criteria: 1. Age between 18\~75 years old 2. ≥ 6 months post stroke, medically stable; 3. Unilateral, single stroke (no restriction on type (ischemic or hemorrhagic) or volume (large or small) of stroke); 4. Visible finger flexor activation/movement 5. The ability to give consent Exclusion criteria: 1. Patients with visual deficit/neglect; hearing or cognitive impairment; 2. Patients that are currently adjusting tone alternating medications (e.g., baclofen), or 3. Patients received botulinum toxin injection to the arm/fingers \<4 months, or phenol injections \<2 years; 4. Patients with pacemaker, metal implants or supplemental oxygen; 5. Patients who have musculoskeletal disorders, including pain in the affected side 6. Women who are pregnant.
Where it's running
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The University of Texas Health Science Center
Houston, Texas, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Sheng Li, MD, Ph.D — The University of Texas Health Science Center, Houston
- Study coordinator: Sheng Li, MD, Ph.D
- Email: sheng.li@uth.tmc.edu
- Phone: (713) 797-7125
Similar studies
Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.
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BreEStim for motor recovery after chronic stroke with moderate impairment
A small pilot test will try Breathing-controlled electrical stimulation to see if it reduces finger muscle tightness and improves hand function in people who had a stroke more than 6 months ago.
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BreEStim for motor recovery after chronic stroke with severe finger spasticity
This pilot test checks whether Breathing-controlled electrical stimulation (BreEStim) can reduce finger flexor spasticity and improve hand function in people who have had a stroke at least 6 months ago with serious impairment.
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Breathing-controlled electrical stimulation to help hand function after stroke
A new treatment using BreEStim tests whether combining breathing control with electrical stimulation can reduce finger flexor tightness and improve hand movement in people who are several months post-stroke.
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.