Bifocal Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation Targeting the Frontoparietal Network in Stro… (NCT06809959) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
Bifocal Transcranial Alternating Current Stimulation Targeting the Frontoparietal Network in Stroke Patients
Germany20 participantsStarted 2025-02-03
Plain-language summary
Hand and arm function is often significantly impaired in stroke patients, making its recovery a primary goal in rehabilitative treatment. This study investigates the effects of bifocal transcranial alternating current stimulation (tACS) on the frontoparietal network in stroke patients during the subacute to chronic recovery phase. By using non-invasive brain stimulation, the study aims to modulate the neural network connectivity between the ipsilesional parietal and premotor cortices. Electroencephalography and kinematic data will be utilized to assess the impact of tACS on functional connectivity and its subsequent effect on motor function. The ultimate goal is to enhance functional coupling within these networks to promote motor function in stroke patients.
Who can participate
Age range
18 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:
* First-ever clinical stroke
* Signed informed consent
* First-ever clinical ischemic stroke at least 3 months ago
* Stimulation areas (PMv and IPS) are unaffected
* Residual deficits in the upper limb
Exclusion Criteria:
* Presence of additional neurological or psychiatric disorders
* Use of psychotropic medication
* Pregnancy or potential pregnancy in female participants
* Pacemakers, other stimulators, or medication pumps
* Claustrophobia
* Non-MRI-compatible metallic implants or foreign objects in the body
* Contraindications for transcranial alternating current stimulation (e.g., epilepsy, history of seizures, any type of pacemaker)
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.
What they're measuring
1
Connectivity in the frontoparietal network
Timeframe: Prior and after stimulation, each recording lasting 21 minutes and 30 seconds.