Using non-invasive nerve stimulation to improve language recovery in stroke survivors with aphasia
Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Language Recovery After Stroke: a Pilot Study
This study is testing if a new non-invasive treatment using nerve stimulation can help stroke survivors with long-term language difficulties improve their communication skills when combined with speech therapy.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 36 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sheffield) |
| Trial ID | NCT06403475 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study investigates the feasibility, safety, and tolerability of Transcutaneous Vagus Nerve Stimulation (tVNS) in individuals with chronic aphasia following a stroke. tVNS is a non-invasive technique that stimulates a branch of the vagus nerve through the skin of the ear, potentially aiding language recovery when combined with computer-based Speech and Language Therapy (SLT). The study aims to assess whether this approach can enhance communication abilities in stroke survivors who have experienced aphasia for more than six months. The findings may support the development of larger randomized controlled trials in the future.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have experienced a supratentorial stroke at least six months prior and have aphasia characterized by word-finding difficulties.
Not a fit: Patients with implanted devices, currently receiving SLT, or those with severe cognitive or sensory impairments may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve language recovery and communication abilities in stroke survivors with chronic aphasia.
How similar studies have performed: While there are no published studies specifically on tVNS for chronic aphasia, there is promising evidence of its benefits in chronic stroke rehabilitation when paired with other therapies.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Supratentorial stroke at least 6 months prior to recruitment * Aphasia (with word finding difficulties) * Ability to engage in the programme (support can be provided for cognitive or receptive difficulties) * Sufficient vision to engage in the computer-based SLT programme Exclusion Criteria: * Implanted devices (e.g. pacemaker) or implanted stimulation devices * Currently receiving a programme of Speech and Language Therapy (SLT) * Damage to the vagus nerve * Symptomatic bradycardia/ 2nd or 3rd heart block * Pregnancy * Unable to speak English * Severe deafness (despite using hear aids)
Where this trial is running
Sheffield
- Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust — Sheffield, United Kingdom (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Dr Ali Ali — Sheffield Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust
- Study coordinator: Dr Ali Ali
- Email: ali.ali@sheffield.ac.uk
- Phone: 01142159114
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.