Brain zaps and therapy show promise for kids with stroke paralysis

NCT ID NCT03216837

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

Summary

This completed trial tested whether combining a gentle brain stimulation technique called tDCS with intensive rehabilitation can improve hand function in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy caused by perinatal stroke. 89 children participated, and the study measured changes in how well they used their affected hand in daily tasks. The goal is to find a new, non-drug treatment to help these children gain more independence.

What this could mean

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

Active substance

cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS)

What this could lead to

If it works, this could offer a new, non-invasive way to improve hand function and quality of life for children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy after perinatal stroke.

What could go wrong

This is a completed early-stage trial with 89 participants, so results may not apply to all children. The treatment requires precise brain mapping and may not work for everyone.

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.

cerebral palsy spastic hemiplegic hemiplegia pediatric arterial ischemic stroke spastic hemiplegia 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 Calgary

    Calgary, Alberta, T2M 1N4, Canada