Using brain stimulation to reduce spasticity in stroke patients

Effects Of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation On Spasticity In Stroke Patients

Not applicable Interventional Riphah International University · NCT06598683

This study is testing whether a type of brain stimulation can help reduce muscle stiffness in stroke patients and improve their recovery.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment56 (estimated)
Ages30 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
SponsorRiphah International University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Rawalpindi, Punjab Province and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT06598683 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on spasticity and motor recovery in stroke patients at various severity levels. It aims to address limitations in previous research by employing standardized protocols and longer follow-up periods. The study will assess how tDCS can improve quality of life by reducing spasticity, which is a common complication in stroke survivors. Participants will be categorized based on their stroke severity using the National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS).

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates include stroke survivors with spasticity who have had their stroke for more than six months and fall within specific severity levels as defined by the NIHSS.

Not a fit: Patients with metallic implants, neurological disorders, or those unable to understand instructions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve motor function and quality of life for stroke patients suffering from spasticity.

How similar studies have performed: While there have been studies on tDCS and stroke, this specific approach focusing on different severity levels of stroke is relatively novel.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Stroke for more than 6 months.
* Both genders.
* Spasticity score ≥1 at modified ashworth scale.
* National Institutes of Health Stroke Scale (NIHSS) for severity level; Mild (1-4), Moderate (5-15), Moderate to Severe (16-20), Severe (21-42)

Exclusion Criteria:

* Have any metallic implant including intracranial electrode, pacemaker, surgical clip.
* Any symptoms effecting understanding of instructions.
* Any neurological disorder

Where this trial is running

Rawalpindi, Punjab Province and 1 other locations

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.
Conditions Strokespasticitytranscranial direct current stimulation
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.