tDCS plus cognitive training to improve thinking in persistent post-concussion syndrome
Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Enhancing Cognitive Function in Individuals With Persistent Post-Concussion Syndrome: A Pilot fMRI/1H-MRS Study
This trial will test whether gentle electrical brain stimulation (tDCS) combined with cognitive training can improve thinking and memory in adults with ongoing post-concussion symptoms from a mild head injury 1–6 years ago.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 65 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hung Hom, Kowloon) |
| Trial ID | NCT06376500 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
The program enrolls adults (≥18) with a confirmed mild traumatic brain injury 1–6 years prior who continue to have cognitive symptoms and can communicate in Chinese. Participants receive repeated sessions of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) paired with a structured cognitive training program delivered in-person. Cognitive performance and brain measures (fMRI and magnetic resonance spectroscopy) are collected before and after the intervention to track changes in cognition, cortical connectivity, and excitatory/inhibitory balance. Key exclusions include other neurological or psychiatric disorders, implanted devices, pregnancy, recent medical instability, and inability to tolerate MRI.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18 or older with a confirmed mild TBI 1–6 years ago who still have cognitive symptoms and can communicate in Chinese are ideal candidates.
Not a fit: People with other neurological or psychiatric disorders, implanted devices, pregnancy, recent medical instability, or an inability to undergo MRI or follow the protocol are unlikely to benefit from this intervention.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could reduce persistent cognitive symptoms and improve daily functioning for people with chronic post-concussion syndrome.
How similar studies have performed: Previous small trials of tDCS with cognitive training after TBI have shown mixed but sometimes promising results, so the approach has pilot support but is not yet proven.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * being 18 years old or older; * having a history of a mild TBI (less than 30 minutes loss of consciousness) 1-6 years prior to the study; * able to communicate in Chinese. Exclusion Criteria: * being without a confirmed diagnosis from the medical practitioner; * having a history of other neurological and psychiatric disorders, skull defect, recent medical instability (within 3 weeks); * being pregnant; * being medication for a psychiatric condition (e.g., major depression, anxiety, schizophrenia); * with any implanted devices or suffering from real claustrophobia or feel uncomfortable in small, enclosed spaces, like MRI tunnel
Where this trial is running
Hung Hom, Kowloon
- The Hong Kong Polytechnic University — Hung Hom, Kowloon, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Yvonne Han, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- Study coordinator: Yvonne Han, PhD
- Email: yvonne.han@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: +852 2766 7578
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.