Transcranial direct current stimulation to improve walking in stroke patients
Official title: Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation of the Dorsolateral Prefrontal Cortex Enhances Dual-task Performance in People With Stroke
Run by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT06818240 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing if a brain stimulation technique can help stroke survivors walk better while doing two things at once.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 50 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong, China) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | November 1, 2024 |
| Main results expected | February 28, 2027 |
| Study ends | February 28, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | October 13, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT06818240 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates are individuals aged 50 to 80 years who are at least six months post-first-ever stroke with unilateral motor deficits and can walk independently.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with unstable medical conditions, significant comorbidities affecting gait, or contraindications to tDCS may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on dual-task walking performance in individuals who have experienced a chronic stroke. Participants will receive either active or sham tDCS targeting the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, followed by assessments of their walking speed and cognitive task performance. The study employs a cross-over design with two sessions spaced a week apart, measuring outcomes such as stride length and dual-task cost. The goal is to determine if tDCS can enhance mobility and cognitive function during dual-task activities.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve the daily functioning and quality of life for stroke survivors by enhancing their ability to walk while engaging in cognitive tasks.
How similar studies have gone: While the use of tDCS in stroke rehabilitation is gaining interest, this specific application targeting dual-task performance is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * age between 50 and 80 years * at least 6 months post-first-ever stroke with unilateral motor deficits * ability to walk independently for at least 10 m without the use of walking aids * a score of 24 or higher on the Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE) Exclusion Criteria: * unstable medical conditions, such as heart failure, uncontrolled hypertension, or cancer * presence of other comorbidities that could interfere with gait * history of contraindications to tDCS, such as epilepsy or metal implants * history of head injury, head surgery, or lower limb orthopedic issues
Where it's running
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The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong, China, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Shamay SM NG, PhD — The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
- Study coordinator: Shamay SM NG, PhD
- Email: shamay.ng@polyu.edu.hk
- Phone: +85227664889
Similar studies
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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.