Music and brain zaps show promise for rare movement disorder

NCT ID NCT05073471

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

Summary

This study tests whether combining music-based movement cues (patterned sensory enhancement) with mild brain stimulation can improve arm and hand function in people with corticobasal syndrome, a rare brain disorder. Twenty participants will be split into two groups: one receiving music therapy alone, the other receiving music therapy plus brain stimulation. The goal is to see if these safe, non-invasive approaches can help with daily tasks and quality of life.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

Patterned Sensory Enhancement (music therapy) and transcranial direct current stimulation (mild brain stimulation)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could point toward a non-invasive, drug-free way to improve arm and hand function and quality of life for people with corticobasal syndrome.

What could go wrong

This is a very small, early-stage study with only 20 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. The improvements may be modest or not last long-term.

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.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Corticobasal Degeneration corticobasal syndrome

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Johns Hopkins School of Medicine

    Baltimore, Maryland, 21205, United States