Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Upper Limb Recovery in Stroke Patients
Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Upper Limb Motor Rehabilitation in Chronic Stroke Patients
This study is testing if a brain stimulation technique can help stroke patients improve their arm movement when combined with regular therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 51 (estimated) |
| Ages | 21 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | National University Hospital, Singapore Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Singapore) |
| Trial ID | NCT05608525 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial investigates the effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) on upper limb motor function rehabilitation in chronic stroke patients. A total of 51 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either active tDCS to specific brain areas or a sham stimulation, alongside standardized occupational therapy known as GRASP. The study will measure various parameters including corticospinal excitability and brain activity through MRI and EEG assessments. The intervention will be conducted over 20 sessions within 30 days, with each session lasting approximately 20 minutes.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals aged 21-80 who have experienced their first stroke between 6 months to 2 years prior and have a specific level of upper limb function.
Not a fit: Patients with conditions such as major depression, epilepsy, or those with metal implants that contraindicate MRI may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance motor recovery in stroke patients, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using tDCS for motor recovery in stroke patients, indicating potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age 21-80 years old; * First ever stroke, 6 months to 2 years after stroke onset; * ARAT≤42 Exclusion Criteria: 1. Pregnancy; 2. Any metal implants inside the body that are contraindications of MRI scan; 3. cardiac pacemakers; 4. History of epilepsy; 5. Sensorimotor disturbance due to other causes other than stroke; 6. Claustrophobia; 7. Uncontrolled medical conditions including hypertension, diabetes mellitus and unstable angina; 8. Major depression and a history of psychotic disorders; 9. Terminal diagnosis with life expectancy \<=1 year. Any metal implants inside the body that are contraindications of MRI scan; 3. cardiac pacemakers; 4. History of epilepsy; 5. Sensorimotor disturbance due to other causes other than stroke; 6. Claustrophobia; 7. Uncontrolled medical conditions including hypertension, diabetes mellitus and unstable angina; 8. Major depression and a history of psychotic disorders; 9. Terminal diagnosis with life expectancy \<=1 year.
Where this trial is running
Singapore
- National University Hospital — Singapore, Singapore (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Effie Chew, MBBS — National University Hospital, Singapore
- Study coordinator: Effie Chew, MBBS
- Email: effie_chew@nuhs.edu.sg
- Phone: (65)69082222
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.