Brain stimulation may boost foot feeling and balance in seniors

NCT ID NCT06771531

Recruiting now Knowledge-focused Sponsor: Hebrew SeniorLife Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a gentle, noninvasive brain stimulation technique called tDCS can improve foot sensation, balance, and walking in older adults who have mild-to-moderate numbness in their feet. Twenty volunteers aged 65 and older will receive either real or sham stimulation while researchers measure how steady they stand and how quickly they walk. The goal is to understand if boosting brain activity can help compensate for lost foot feeling.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)
What this could lead to: If successful, this could point toward a non-drug way to improve balance and reduce fall risk in older adults with foot numbness.
What could go wrong: This is a very small, early-stage study (20 people) testing a short-term effect. It may not lead to a lasting treatment or work for everyone.

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As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

BALANCE CONTROL MOBILITY SOMATOSENSORY FUNCTION

Contacts and locations

Locations

Hebrew SeniorLife
RECRUITING

Roslindale, Massachusetts, 02131, United States

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