Brain zaps could reignite motivation in stroke survivors
NCT ID NCT05878457
First seen Jul 10, 2026 · Last updated Jul 10, 2026
Summary
This pilot study tests whether a type of non-invasive brain stimulation called accelerated repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can safely reduce apathy in people who have had a stroke. Apathy — a lack of motivation or interest — is common after stroke and can hinder recovery. Participants receive multiple short sessions of magnetic pulses targeting a brain region linked to motivation over a week. The study measures changes in apathy symptoms, thinking abilities, and any side effects.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
- Active substance
- Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) device
- What this could lead to
- If successful, this approach could offer a non-drug treatment for post-stroke apathy, helping survivors feel more motivated and engaged in their recovery.
- What could go wrong
- This is a very early pilot study with only 21 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The treatment is experimental, and its long-term benefits or risks are not yet known.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for ABULIA are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Show contact details
Enter your email to view the contact information for this study.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Locations
-
Medical University of South Carolina Brain Stimulation Lab
Charleston, South Carolina, 29403, United States
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Can simple eye and head movements restore balance after a stroke?
- Less therapist time, same recovery? a new stroke rehab approach puts Self-Supervised therapy to the test
- Creative tech workshops could empower people with mental health conditions
- Mind over matter: brain training may unlock Self-Motivation
- Music and mindfulness app tested as a drug-free tool for anxiety and depression
- New study probes why stroke survivors struggle to sit steady