Using brain stimulation to improve hand function recovery after stroke
Multisite Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Targeting Motor Network by Mapping Electric Fields With Task-based fMRI to Promote Hand Function Recovery After Stroke
NA · Chinese University of Hong Kong · NCT05638464
This study is testing if a new type of brain stimulation can help stroke survivors recover better hand function by using personalized treatment based on their brain scans.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Chinese University of Hong Kong (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT05638464 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the use of multisite high definition transcranial direct current stimulation (HD-tDCS) to enhance motor function recovery in stroke survivors. By targeting multiple brain regions based on individual lesion profiles, the approach aims to increase motor excitability more effectively than traditional single-site stimulation. The electrode placements are personalized using advanced imaging and modeling techniques to optimize the stimulation effect. Participants will receive either the active HD-tDCS or a sham treatment while engaging with an EMG-driven robotic hand to assess improvements in hand function.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have experienced their first stroke over 12 months ago and have mild to moderate upper extremity motor function deficits.
Not a fit: Patients with severe joint contractures, significant cognitive impairments, or a history of epilepsy may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve hand function recovery in stroke patients, enhancing their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of tDCS has been explored in stroke recovery, this multisite approach is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * first-ever stroke, the duration after stroke exceeds 12 months; * mild to moderate upper extremity motor function deficit, determined by the Fugl-meyer assessment of upper extremity (FMAUE) scores between 15 and 53; * detectable voluntary muscle sEMG signal from flexor digitorum (FD) and extensor digitorum (ED); * scored below 3 in the Modified Ashworh Score (MAS) of FD and ED; * sufficient cognitive function to follow the assessment and training instructions, determined by Mini Mental State Examination score of more than 21. Exclusion Criteria: * history of epilepsy, or any other contradictions of brain stimulation; * 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.
Conditions: Stroke