Brain zaps may help stroke survivors find their words again

NCT ID NCT05561400

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

Summary

This pilot study tested whether combining a mild brain stimulation technique (tDCS) with intensive language therapy can help people with non-fluent aphasia after a stroke. Ten participants received both real and sham stimulation during therapy sessions. The goal was to see if the combination improves their ability to speak in sentences and recall words.

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) device

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a new way to improve language recovery in people with aphasia after stroke.

What could go wrong

This is a very small pilot study with only 10 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. It is too early to know if the treatment is truly effective.

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.

Get updates

Get notified about this study

Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for STROKE are added.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

aphasia Aphasia, Broca brain injury progressive non-fluent aphasia stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of Minnesota

    Duluth, Minnesota, 55812, United States