RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT07246993

Targeting Neuroplasticity for Persistent Post-Concussive Cognitive Symptoms

Targeting Neuroplasticity for Persistent Post-Concussive Cognitive Symptoms: A Trial of tDCS and Cognitive Training 3-12 Months Post-mTBI

Sponsor

University of Minnesota

Enrollment

30 participants

Start Date

Mar 5, 2026

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Mild Traumatic Brain Injury Persistent Post Concussion Syndrome

Summary

This project investigates an innovative combination of non-invasive neuromodulation (transcranial direct current stimulation - tDCS) and cognitive training as a novel treatment approach aimed at improving function in individuals suffering from persistent post-concussive syndrome (PPCS) following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 65 Years

Inclusion Criteria4

Age 18-65
Has sustained a single mTBI 3-12 months prior to enrollment
Meets criteria for PPCS (assessed using the CP Screen)
Has reliable access to a smartphone

Exclusion Criteria5

Inability to provide informed consent or complete study procedures
History of moderate/severe TBI
Significant neurological or psychiatric disorders (other than PPCS-related symptoms like mild depression/anxiety)
Substance dependence within the last six months
Contraindications to tDCS (e.g., implanted metal, skin lesions on scalp)

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Interventions

DEVICEActive tDCS

All participants will receive 10 sessions of cognitive training focused on executive functions, delivered over approximately 3 weeks. Cognitive training will be completed on a lab provided computer using PositScience BrainHQ or TaskFlow software. Concurrently, during each training session, participants will receive either active or sham tDCS. Stimulation will be delivered via saline-soaked sponge electrodes using the Soterix 1x1 miniCT TES device. The anode (active electrode) will be placed over the L-DLPFC (approximated by EEG coordinate F3) and the cathode (reference electrode) over the contralateral supraorbital area (Fp2). The active tDCS group will receive 2mA constant current for 20 minutes.

DEVICESham tDCS

All participants will receive 10 sessions of cognitive training focused on executive functions, delivered over approximately 3 weeks. Cognitive training will be completed on a lab provided computer using PositScience BrainHQ or TaskFlow software. Concurrently, during each training session, participants will receive either active or sham tDCS. Stimulation will be delivered via saline-soaked sponge electrodes using the Soterix 1x1 miniCT TES device. The anode (active electrode) will be placed over the L-DLPFC (approximated by EEG coordinate F3) and the cathode (reference electrode) over the contralateral supraorbital area (Fp2). The sham tDCS group will receive a brief ramp up and ramp down of current at the beginning and end of the 20 minutes to mimic the sensation of active stimulation.