Comperative Effects of Transcutaneous Auricular and Cervical Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Subacute Stroke Patients
Comparative Effects of Transcutaneous Auricular and Cervical Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Upper Limb Function, Cognition and Quality of Life in Subacute Stroke Patients
Lahore University of Biological and Applied Sciences
54 participants
Nov 20, 2025
INTERVENTIONAL
Conditions
Summary
This study aims to determine whether transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (tVNS) via auricular or cervical branches enhances recovery when combined with task-specific training in subacute stroke patients. We anticipate finding that both stimulation methods may improve upper limb motor function compared to conventional therapy. The research is expected to reveal specific cognitive domains (attention, memory, executive function) that benefit most from each stimulation approach, while also demonstrating meaningful improvements in patients' quality of life measures. These findings may make a significant practical contribution by providing clinicians with evidence-based guidance on suitable tVNS approach for improving functional independence and quality of life for stroke survivors.
Eligibility
Inclusion Criteria3
- First ever ischemic stroke
- Subacute phase of stroke 3-6 months post onset
- Fugl-Meyer Assessment-Upper Extremity (FMA-UE) scores ranged from 20 - 50
Exclusion Criteria6
- Previous injury or surgical intervention of vagus nerve
- Patients with cardiac arrest and arrythmias
- Uncontrolled hypertension
- Apraxia
- Other neurologic or musculoskeletal diseases
- Presence of implanted electronic devices
Interested in this trial?
Get notified about updates and connect with the research team.
Interventions
Group A will receive application of TENS to stimulate the vagus nerve at the ear level, apply the clip electrodes at the targus/cymba concha and the other electrode anywhere in the skin over neck Mode on TENS will be normal, with the width pulse of 250µs. FITT will be as follow Frequency of 25 Hz, Intensity 1mA, Time 30 minutes and the treatment will be of 5 days a week for 8 consecutive weeks * For grip and release: Use a soft ball, putty, or other textured objects. The patient squeezes the object to strengthen their grip and then releases it. * Reaching task: Place objects at varying distances in front of the patient. Encourage them to reach out with the affected arm to grasp the items and then bring them back. * Bilateral arm movement: Encourage simultaneous reaching or moving with both arms (e.g., pushing against a wall or lifting a lightweight object) to promote symmetry and coordination. Improve coordination and function of both arms. * Tabletop activities: Engaging in activities lik
Group B will receive application of TENS to stimulate the vagus nerve at the neck level, apply the pad electrodes at the anterior mid to neck and the other electrode over back of neck Mode on TENS will be normal, with the width pulse of 250µs. FITT will be as follow Frequency of 25 Hz, Intensity 1mA, Time 30 minutes and the treatment will be of 5 days a week for 8 consecutive weeks * For grip and release: Use a soft ball, putty, or other textured objects. The patient squeezes the object to strengthen their grip and then releases it. * Reaching task: Place objects at varying distances in front of the patient. Encourage them to reach out with the affected arm to grasp the items and then bring them back. * Bilateral arm movement: Encourage simultaneous reaching or moving with both arms (e.g., pushing against a wall or lifting a lightweight object) to promote symmetry and coordination. Improve coordination and function of both arms. * Tabletop activities: Engaging in activities like sortin
Locations(1)
View Full Details on ClinicalTrials.gov
For the most up-to-date information, visit the official listing.
NCT07253870