Using brain stimulation to reduce falling risks in children with cerebral palsy
Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Risk of Falling in Cerebral Palsy Spastic Hemiplegic Children
This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help improve balance and reduce falling risks in children aged 8-12 with cerebral palsy who can walk on their own.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 8 Years to 12 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Cairo University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Giza, Giza Governorate) |
| Trial ID | NCT06730763 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on improving balance and reducing the risk of falling in children aged 8-12 with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy. The research focuses on children classified as GMFCS levels II and III, who can walk independently for at least 12 months. Participants will undergo tDCS combined with exercise interventions to assess changes in their functional balance and fall risk. The study aims to provide insights into effective strategies for enhancing mobility and safety in this population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 8-12 years with spastic hemiplegic cerebral palsy classified as GMFCS levels II and III.
Not a fit: Patients with orthopedic deformities, a history of seizures, or those who have participated in a tDCS study within the last 6 months may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly reduce the risk of falls and improve overall mobility in children with cerebral palsy.
How similar studies have performed: While the use of tDCS in other populations has shown promise, this specific application in children with cerebral palsy is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Age range between 8-12 years old. * Classified on levels II and III of the Gross Motor Function Classification System (GMFCS) (Palisiano et al.,1997). * the ability to walk without the assistance of another individual for at least 12 months prior to the onset of the study, regardless of whether a gait-assistance device was needed (GMFCS level III) or not (GMFCS level II). * (Pediatric Balance Scale, Timed Up and Go Test 'TUGT') and acceptance of the TDCS procedure. * Ability to understand and follow simple instructions. * Parent or guardian consent obtained Exclusion Criteria: * Orthopedic deformities, a history of surgery or neurolytic block in the previous 12 months, * Diagnosis of epilepsy or having experienced convulsive crises (whether treated with medication or not) in at least the two years prior to the onset of the study, metal implants in the skull, or the use of hearing aids. * Previous participation in a tDCS study within the past 6 months.
Where this trial is running
Giza, Giza Governorate
- Cairo University — Giza, Giza Governorate, Egypt (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Ahmed fathy Awad, Master degree
- Email: ahmedawdpt@gmail.com
- Phone: 00201061263992
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.