Using targeted brain stimulation to improve upper limb movement after stroke

Determine the Effect of Targeted High-definition tDCS on Reducing Post-stroke Upper Limb Motor Impairments

NA · Carle Foundation Hospital · NCT05479006

This study tests whether a special type of brain stimulation can help improve arm movement in people who have had a stroke.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment30 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 90 Years
SexAll
SponsorCarle Foundation Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Urbana, Illinois)
Trial IDNCT05479006 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of targeted high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) on reducing motor impairments in the upper limb following a stroke. Participants will undergo a series of interventions involving different stimulation techniques, including anodal and cathodal stimulation, in a randomized and double-blinded manner. The study aims to assess the impact of these interventions on motor function by utilizing a subject-specific head model to optimize stimulation parameters. The total duration of participation is approximately 10 weeks, including four intervention visits and assessments.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with substantial motor impairment of one upper limb due to a stroke.

Not a fit: Patients with severe cognitive dysfunction, significant sensory deficits, or other severe medical conditions may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly enhance motor recovery in stroke patients, improving their quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promise in using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques for motor recovery in stroke patients, indicating potential for success in this novel approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Paresis confined to one side, with substantial motor impairment of the paretic upper limb
* Capacity to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

* Muscle tone abnormalities and motor or sensory impairment in the non-paretic limb
* Severe wasting or contracture or significant sensory deficits in the paretic upper limb
* Severe cognitive or affective dysfunction that prevents normal communication and understanding of consent or instruction
* Severe concurrent medical problems (e.g. cardiorespiratory impairment)
* Using a pacemaker
* Metal implants in the head
* Known adverse reactions to TMS and tDCS
* Pregnant

Where this trial is running

Urbana, Illinois

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: Stroke, Non-invasive Brain Stimulation, Movement Impairment

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.