Using non-invasive vagus nerve stimulation to help stroke recovery
EEG Changes and DNA Markers Related to Transcutaneous Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS) in Acute Stroke Patients: a Preliminary Study
This study is testing if a new, non-invasive treatment using ear stimulation can help people recover their movement skills after having a stroke.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 44 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Pomona, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT06226493 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) on motor recovery in stroke patients. It aims to explore the potential of non-invasive stimulation techniques to enhance neurological recovery after a stroke, particularly in patients who have experienced their first cerebrovascular accident within a month. The research will assess the safety and efficacy of taVNS, which stimulates the vagus nerve through the tragus of the ear, potentially offering a practical alternative to invasive vagus nerve stimulation. The study seeks to fill a gap in the limited treatment options available for improving motor function post-stroke.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals who have experienced their first stroke within the past month.
Not a fit: Patients with advanced cardiac, pulmonary, liver, or kidney disease, or those with neurological conditions that could interfere with outcomes may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a new, non-invasive treatment option to improve motor recovery in stroke patients.
How similar studies have performed: While there is limited research on taVNS specifically for stroke recovery, preliminary studies on vagus nerve stimulation have shown promise in improving motor function in similar patient populations.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * First-time Cerebrovascular Accident (Ischemic or Hemorrhagic) * Within a month post-injury * Presence of motor impairments (FMA-U≤62) Exclusion Criteria: * Advanced cardiac, pulmonary, liver, or kidney disease * Bradycardia (Resting HR \< 60) * Presence of Apraxia, Aphasia or confusion * Other musculoskeletal or neurologic diseases that could interfere with the outcome measures * Previous surgical intervention on the vagus nerve * Participation in other clinical trials * Alcohol or drug abuse
Where this trial is running
Pomona, California
- Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare — Pomona, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Elliott Block, MD — Casa Colina Hospital and Centers for Healthcare
- Study coordinator: Caroline Schnakers, PhD
- Email: cschnakers@casacolina.org
- Phone: (909)596-7733
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.