Ear stimulation device shows promise for stroke arm recovery
NCT ID NCT07425756
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests whether a gentle electrical stimulation to the ear (vagus nerve) combined with arm nerve stimulation can improve arm function in people who had a stroke at least 6 months ago. 120 participants aged 55-75 will receive either real or sham stimulation. The goal is to see if this painless, non-invasive approach helps with movement and thinking skills.
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 (device)
- What this could lead to
- If it works, this could offer a new, non-invasive way to improve arm movement and cognitive function after a stroke.
- What could go wrong
- This is a small, early-stage trial with no phase designation, so results may not be conclusive. The effect may be modest or not better than sham stimulation.
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.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
Locations
-
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
RECRUITINGKowloon, Hong Kong
More trials for these conditions
Other studies related to the condition(s) this trial covers.
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- Can a gentle ear zap supercharge stroke rehab at home?
- Can exercise boost reading recovery in stroke survivors?