"Effects of a Combined Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Physical Therapy Protocol… (NCT07597746) | Clinical Trial Compass
Not Yet RecruitingNot Applicable
"Effects of a Combined Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation and Physical Therapy Protocol on Motor Function, Balance, and Quality of Life in Chronic Post-Stroke Hemiplegia: A Case Series"
20 participantsStarted 2026-06-05
Plain-language summary
Chronic post-stroke hemiplegia frequently results in persistent motor deficits, impaired balance, and reduced quality of life. Conventional physical therapy is fundamental for functional recovery; however, motor improvement often plateaus during the chronic phase. Repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) is a non-invasive neuromodulation technique that has shown potential to enhance motor recovery by modulating cortical excitability and promoting neuroplasticity.
This case series aims to investigate the effects of a combined protocol of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation and conventional physical therapy on motor function, balance, and quality of life in individuals with chronic post-stroke hemiplegia. Participants will undergo rTMS applied to the motor cortex in conjunction with a structured physical therapy program. Clinical outcomes will be assessed before and after the intervention to explore feasibility, safety, and potential functional benefits of the combined approach.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 75 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:
* Diagnosis of first-ever unilateral ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke confirmed by neuroimaging (CT or MRI)
* Chronic post-stroke hemiplegia (≥ 6 months since stroke onset)
* Moderate to severe motor impairment of the affected lower limb (FMA-LE score between 10 and 28 points)
* Age between 18 and 75 years
* Medically stable and able to participate in a rehabilitation program
* Ability to understand study procedures and provide written informed consent
* No contraindications to repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), according to current safety guidelines.
Exclusion Criteria:
* History of epilepsy or seizures
* Presence of pacemakers, cochlear implants, intracranial metallic implants, or other contraindications to rTMS
* Severe cognitive impairment or communication deficits preventing participation
* Progressive neurological disorders or unstable medical conditions
* Participation in other experimental neurorehabilitation interventions during the study period
* Any condition judged by investigators to compromise safety or data valid
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
Motor function (FMA)
Timeframe: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately after completion of the intervention (2 weeks), and at 1-month follow-up.
2
balance
Timeframe: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately after completion of the intervention (2 weeks), and at 1-month follow-up.
3
Functional mobility
Timeframe: Baseline (pre-intervention), immediately after completion of the intervention (2 weeks), and at 1-month follow-up.