Using theta burst stimulation to help motor recovery after stroke

Comparative Efficacy of Different Doses of Theta Burst Stimulation for Motor Recovery in Stroke Patients

NA · National Taiwan University Hospital · NCT05613686

This study is testing if a new brain stimulation technique can help people recover their movement skills after a stroke.

Quick facts

PhaseNA
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment60 (estimated)
Ages20 Years and up
SexAll
SponsorNational Taiwan University Hospital (other)
Locations1 site (Taipei)
Trial IDNCT05613686 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of different doses of intermittent theta burst stimulation (iTBS) combined with inhibitory repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on motor recovery and cortical excitability in patients who have experienced a subacute stroke. The approach utilizes non-invasive neuromodulation technology to enhance the excitability of the primary motor cortex, potentially aiding in the rehabilitation of motor functions. Participants will be assessed for their eligibility based on specific criteria related to their stroke and overall health status.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged over 20 who have experienced a unilateral ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke within the last three months and have limited muscle strength in their upper limb.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of previous strokes, central nervous system diseases, or contraindications to rTMS will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve motor recovery outcomes for stroke patients.

How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promising results with similar neuromodulation techniques, indicating potential for success in this approach.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* 1.Unilateral ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke
* 2.Stroke within 3 months
* 3.Medical Research Council Scale for Muscle Strength in upper limb ≤ 3
* 4.No previous stroke, seizure, dementia, Parkinson's disease or other degenerative neurological diseases.
* 5.Patient could sit over 15 minutes
* 6.Age over 20

Exclusion Criteria:

* 1.Previous stroke, traumatic brain injury, brain tumor
* 2.With central nervous system disease (spinal cord injury, Parkinson's disease)
* 3.Any contraindication to rTMS (seizure, alcoholism, metal implant, pacemaker)
* 4.Patients unable to cooperate the treatment
* 5.Pregnancy
* 6.Depression

Where this trial is running

Taipei

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: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation

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.