Using brain stimulation to improve movement and reduce fatigue in Parkinson's disease

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) to Improve Motor Function and Motor Fatigue in Parkinson's Patients

NA · Sanford Health · NCT06883266

This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help people with Parkinson's disease move better and feel less tired.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment64 (estimated)
SexAll
SponsorSanford Health (other)
Locations1 site (Fargo, North Dakota)
Trial IDNCT06883266 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of multi-session anodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on the left dorsolateral prefrontal cortex in patients with Parkinson's disease. The researchers aim to determine if this noninvasive brain stimulation technique can enhance motor function and decrease motor fatigue and fatigability. Participants will receive tDCS for 20 minutes daily over five days, with assessments conducted to evaluate changes in their motor abilities and fatigue levels. The study seeks to provide insights into the long-term benefits of tDCS for improving quality of life in individuals with Parkinson's disease.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include individuals diagnosed with Parkinson's disease who exhibit at least two of the four cardinal symptoms.

Not a fit: Patients with dementia, those undergoing deep brain stimulation, or individuals with certain other neurological or chronic conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance motor function and reduce fatigue in patients with Parkinson's disease.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with tDCS in improving motor function in Parkinson's disease, indicating that this approach is supported by existing research.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Clinical diagnosis of PD with at least two of the four diagnostic criteria for PD (tremor, rigidity, bradykinesia, and postural instability)
* Must be able to consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Patients with dementia (MOCA \< 21)
* PD treatment using deep brain stimulation (DBS)
* Diagnosis of psychosis
* Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis
* Diagnosis of stroke
* Diagnosis of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD)
* Diagnosis of congestive heart failure (CHF)

Where this trial is running

Fargo, North Dakota

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.

View on ClinicalTrials.gov →

Conditions: Parkinsons Disease, tDCS, Motor Function, Motor Fatigue

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.