Effects of tDCS for Enhancing Cognitive Function in Individuals With Persistent Post-Concussion S… (NCT06376500) | Clinical Trial Compass
RecruitingNot Applicable
Effects of tDCS for Enhancing Cognitive Function in Individuals With Persistent Post-Concussion Syndrome
Hong Kong40 participantsStarted 2025-09-01
Plain-language summary
Globally, 10 million new traumatic brain injury (TBI) cases are estimated annually, with mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) accounting for 75-90% of all TBI cases. It is estimated that 40-80% of individuals with mTBI may experience the post-concussion syndrome (PCS), which is characterized by a range of physical, cognitive, and emotional symptoms. Although the underlying basis of cognitive dysfunction of patients with persistent PCS remains to be clarified, converging evidence shows that the clinical symptoms is underpinned by abnormal neural information processing as a result of axonal injury due to mTBI. Recent studies have demonstrated abnormalities in both structural and functional cortical connectivity, and a loss of cortical excitability-inhibitory (E/I) balance after TBI. Yet, there is no consensus for treating chronic symptoms of concussion, and PCS remains a chronic and highly disabling condition. One potential treatment option is transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that has been shown to modify behavior by enhancing connectivity between targeted brain areas. However, research on the therapeutic effect of tDCS on PCS symptoms is limited, and the neurologic mechanisms underlying its effects are not well understood. The proposed study aims to address these knowledge gaps by examining the effects of tDCS on the central nervous system function in patients with PCS, with a specific focus on functional cortical connectivity and cognitive functions such as processing speed and executive function. The study also aims to add value to existing evidence by potentially opening new directions for designing intervention programs for the treatment of PCS after mTBI.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 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:
* being 18 years old or older;
* having a history of a mild TBI (less than 30 minutes loss of consciousness) 1-6 years prior to the study;
* able to communicate in Chinese.
Exclusion Criteria:
* being without a confirmed diagnosis from the medical practitioner;
* having a history of other neurological and psychiatric disorders, skull defect, recent medical instability (within 3 weeks);
* being pregnant;
* being medication for a psychiatric condition (e.g., major depression, anxiety, schizophrenia);
* with any implanted devices or suffering from real claustrophobia or feel uncomfortable in small, enclosed spaces, like MRI tunnel
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.
1This trial uses transcranial direct current stimulation — a non-invasive brain stimulation technique — to try to improve executive function after concussion. Can you explain how tDCS works and whether it's considered safe enough to discuss as an option given where I am in my recovery?
2Since this trial is listed as 'Phase NA,' it seems to be more of a research study than a traditional drug trial — what does that mean for how much is already known about whether tDCS actually helps people with persistent post-concussion syndrome like me?
3The trial measures cognitive outcomes using brain imaging like fMRI and MRS alongside executive function tests — would going through those scans and assessments be realistic given my current symptoms, like light sensitivity or cognitive fatigue that's common with post-concussion syndrome?
4Before considering a research study like this, are there standard treatments or rehabilitation approaches for my post-concussion symptoms that I should try first, or would participating in this trial fit alongside what I'm already doing?
5If I were to discuss joining this trial with the research team, what would I need to know about how often I'd need to come in for sessions, and is that kind of commitment realistic for someone managing ongoing post-concussion symptoms day to day?
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.
What they're measuring
1
Average standardised score of executive function tests
Timeframe: First day of intervention, 1 day after the last day of intervention (2 time points, up to 2 weeks)