Zapping the brain to unstiffen stroke-affected arms?

NCT ID NCT05479006

First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026

Summary

This study tests whether a precise form of brain stimulation called targeted high-definition tDCS can reduce arm stiffness and improve movement in 30 people who have had a stroke. The treatment aims to calm overactive brain pathways and boost damaged ones. Participants will receive different types of stimulation to see which works best.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

targeted high-definition transcranial direct current stimulation (THD-tDCS)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a non-invasive way to improve arm movement and reduce stiffness after stroke.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage study with only 30 participants. It is testing brain activity changes, not yet proven to improve daily function. Results may not apply to all stroke survivors.

Disclaimer Read more

This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Study contacts

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

  • Contact

    Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

Locations

  • Carle Foundation Hospital

    RECRUITING

    Urbana, Illinois, 61801, United States

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••

    Contact

    Contact