This pilot study for stroke patients with chronic upper limb hemiplegia will examine the effects of non-invasive brain stimulation and neuromuscular electrical stimulation on hand motor control and corticospinal excitability. Specifically, this study will investigate the effects of timing and delivery of tDCS in conjunction with contralaterally controlled functional electrical stimulation.
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Allocation
RANDOMIZED
Purpose
TREATMENT
Masking
DOUBLE
Enrollment
15
Contralaterally Controlled Functional Electrical Stimulation: An electrical stimulator will be used to deliver electrical current through surface electrodes to produce hand opening by making the paretic finger and thumb extensor muscles contract. The stimulator will be programmed to deliver stimulation with an intensity that corresponds to the opening of a glove instrumented with sensors and plugged into the stimulator (i.e., CCFES). Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS): TDCS is a method of noninvasive stimulation of the brain. Using electrodes placed in saline-soaked sponges, low level of direct current (1mA) is delivered over the scalp. This intervention is considered safe and noninvasive because it does not involve implantation or injection or any skin penetration.
MetroHealth Medical Center
Cleveland, Ohio, United States
RECRUITINGCorticospinal Excitability
Change in corticospinal excitability will be measured with transcranial magnetic stimulation
Time frame: up to one hour post intervention
Reaction Time
Change in reaction time will be assessed with visual and auditory cues.
Time frame: up to one hour post intervention
This platform is for informational purposes only and does not constitute medical advice. Always consult a qualified healthcare professional.