Single-session tDCS in Cerebral Palsy (NCT03635775) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Single-session tDCS in Cerebral Palsy
United States20 participantsStarted 2018-05-01
Plain-language summary
The goal of this study is to characterize individual responses to a single application of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in children with unilateral cerebral palsy (UCP), and to test which electrode configuration produces changes in brain excitability and motor function. Participants with UCP, ages 7-21 years, will be assigned to one of four tDCS groups. Using single-pulse transcranial magnetic stimulation, the investigators will assess cortical excitability before and at regular intervals up to 1 hour following tDCS. The knowledge gained from this study will advance the field through more targeted approaches of neuromodulatory techniques in this population and others, using individual characteristics to guide optimal treatment
Who can participate
Age range
7 Years – 21 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria (for all participants):
* Ages 7-21
* Able to follow two-step commands.
* Presence of an MEP in the non-lesioned hemisphere
Exclusion Criteria (for all participants):
* Evidence of seizure within 2 years
* Other neurological or metabolic conditions
* Is pregnant (females only)
* Presence of indwelling metal in the head (e.g. aneurysm clip) or medical device.
Inclusion Criteria (for participants with cerebral palsy):
* Clinical diagnosis of unilateral cerebral palsy
* Radiological evidence of stroke or periventricular leukomalacia
Exclusion Criteria(for participants with cerebral palsy):
* Treatment with injectable agents (e.g. Botox) for spasticity management within 2 months
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.