Home device aims to boost brain power after injury

NCT ID NCT07428980

Completed Symptom relief Sponsor: Shirley Ryan AbilityLab Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tested whether a device that gently stimulates a nerve in the ear, used at home for one hour a day over two weeks, could help improve thinking and memory in people with mild to moderate traumatic brain injury. Seven adults took part to see if the treatment was practical and acceptable. The goal was to gather early data on whether this approach might support cognitive recovery.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) device
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a convenient home-based way to help people with TBI recover thinking skills.
What could go wrong: This was a very small feasibility study with only 7 people, so results may not apply widely. The device may not improve cognition more than standard care.

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.

Brain Injuries, Traumatic traumatic brain injury

As listed by the trial registrant

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

TBI (TRAUMATIC BRAIN INJURY)

Contacts and locations

Locations

Shirley Ryan AbilityLab

Chicago, Illinois, 60611, United States

More trials for these conditions

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