Could a gentle zing to the brain unlock lost words after stroke?

NCT ID NCT05093673

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Johns Hopkins University Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 24, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether a mild electrical current applied to the back of the brain (cerebellar tDCS) can boost language therapy for people who have trouble finding words after a stroke. Sixty adults who had a left-hemisphere stroke at least six months ago and still have aphasia will receive either real or sham stimulation during naming practice. The goal is to see if this combination improves their ability to name objects and pictures.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: cathodal cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to boost language recovery after stroke, helping people find words more easily.
What could go wrong: This is an early-stage study with only 60 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The improvement in naming might be small or not last long.

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.

aphasia stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

STROKE

Contacts and locations

Locations

Johns Hopkins Hospital
RECRUITING

Baltimore, Maryland, 21287, United States

More trials for these conditions

Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.