RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07151729

Use of Anodal tDCS to Enhance Upper Limb Recovery in Stroke

Use of Anodal Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation to Enhance Upper Limb Recovery in Stroke

Sponsor

Tan Tock Seng Hospital

Enrollment

50 participants

Start Date

Sep 1, 2025

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Stroke

Summary

This will be a randomized, blinded, sham-controlled trial. The medical device used, Soterix Medical 1x1 tDCS stimulator, is capable of delivering either real or sham tDCS and has been used in many randomised controlled trials in stroke patients. 50 patients with subacute stroke and severe upper limb weakness within 8 weeks of stroke on transfer to TTSH stroke rehab wards will be recruited over a period of 10 months. Recruited patients will be randomized into the intervention and control arms in a 1:1 ratio.

Eligibility

Min Age: 21 YearsMax Age: 80 Years

Inclusion Criteria5

First ever unilateral ischaemic or haemorrhagic stroke, as documented by CT or MRI scans
Age 21-80 years, both males and females
Within 8 weeks of stroke onset
Severe weakness of one upper limb, defined by a Shoulder Abduction and Finger Extension (SAFE) score < 5 (Medical Research Council grading)
Provision of informed consent by patient or a legal guardian in accordance with the local ethics committee guidelines and the Declaration of Helsinki

Exclusion Criteria7

Bilateral hemispheric or cerebellar strokes
Pre-existing arm pathology (e.g. contracture, severe pain, etc.) on the affected side
Presence of brain implants, and previous insertion of external ventricular drains.
Metallic implants at the level of the neck, mouth cavity and below are permitted (e.g. Cardiac stents, dental implants, pacemakers and other metallic objects)
A history of spontaneous seizures, epilepsy, brain tumour, and cranial surgery
Severe cognitive impairment (MOCA Score <10) that would hinder sufficient understanding of the instructions
Pregnancy