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.
This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.
Get updates
Get notified about this study
Sign up to get updates when this study changes or when new studies for APHASIA are added.
By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use
Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
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
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
- Spinal zaps could reboot breathing after brain injury
- Can brain scans reveal hidden language struggles after stroke?
- Can lifestyle choices after a stroke extend life and prevent a second one?
- A tablet test aims to catch hidden attention and memory problems after stroke
- Can a gentle ear zap supercharge stroke rehab at home?
- Can exercise boost reading recovery in stroke survivors?