Could a simple ear device help stroke survivors find their words?

NCT ID NCT07563387

ENROLLING_BY_INVITATION Symptom relief Sponsor: University of Florida Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

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

Summary

This study tests whether a non-invasive device that gently stimulates the vagus nerve through the ear can improve speech recovery in people with aphasia after stroke or brain injury. Twelve adults with apraxia of speech will receive either active or sham stimulation during 16 weeks of daily speech therapy. Researchers will track side effects, compliance, and changes in speech production to see if the approach is safe and promising.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: transcutaneous auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS)
What this could lead to: If it works, this could point toward a new way to boost speech therapy for people with aphasia after stroke or brain injury.
What could go wrong: This is a very small early study with only 12 participants, so results may not apply to everyone. It is also testing a device, not a drug, so the effect may be modest.

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.

Our safety recommendation!

By submitting, you agree to our Terms of use

Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

aphasia apraxia Brain Injuries, Traumatic childhood apraxia of speech Language Speech stroke disorder

As listed by the trial registrant

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

APHASIA APRAXIA OF SPEECH

Contacts and locations

Locations

Brooks Rehabilitation Clinical Research Center

Jacksonville, Florida, 32216, United States

More trials for these conditions

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