Using advanced brain stimulation to improve recovery after stroke
Multisite High-definition Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Targeting Sensorimotor Network Navigated by Task-based fMRI to Facilitate Motor Activation and Reorganization for Stroke
This study is testing if a special type of brain stimulation can help people who have had their first stroke and have some trouble moving, by improving their recovery.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06648954 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of multisite high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) on stroke recovery by targeting the motor network in the brain. It aims to enhance cortical excitability and facilitate neuroplastic reorganization, which is crucial for recovery. Participants will receive either the multisite HD-tDCS, conventional tDCS, or sham stimulation, with their electrode placements optimized based on individual brain activity patterns. The study focuses on patients who have experienced their first stroke and have mild to moderate motor function deficits.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have had their first-ever stroke more than 12 months ago and exhibit mild to moderate upper extremity motor function deficits.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of epilepsy or severe joint contractures may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could lead to improved motor recovery and rehabilitation outcomes for stroke patients.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise with multisite stimulation approaches, indicating potential for success in this novel application.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. first-ever stroke, the duration after stroke exceeds 12 months; 2. mild to moderate upper extremity motor function deficit, determined by the Fugl-meyer assessment of upper extremity (FMAUE) scores between 15 and 53; 3. could voluntarily perform grasping hand movement. 4. sufficient cognitive function to follow the assessment and experiment instructions. Exclusion Criteria: 1. history of epilepsy, or any other contradictions of brain stimulation and MRI scanning; 2. severe joint contracture of elbow or shoulder, or pain induced by any other neurological, neuromuscular, and orthopedic diseases.
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong
- Department of Biomedical Engineering, The Chinese University of Hong Kong — Hong Kong, Hong Kong (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Raymond Kai-yu Tong, PhD — Department of Biomedical Engineering, CUHK
- Study coordinator: Raymond Kai-yu Tong, PhD
- Email: kytong@cuhk.edu.hk
- Phone: +852 3943 8454
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.