Zapping the brain to unstiffen stroke-affected arms?

NCT ID NCT05479006

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Carle Foundation Hospital Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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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.

STROKE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Carle Foundation Hospital
RECRUITING

Urbana, Illinois, 61801, United States

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