Feasibility of Augmenting Cognitive Strategy Training With Non-Invasive Brain Stimulation

Area of Science:

• Neurorehabilitation
• Occupational Therapy
• Clinical Feasibility Studies

Background:

• Stroke survivors often face challenges resuming meaningful daily activities.
• Metacognitive strategy training (MCST) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) are potential interventions for improving functional outcomes.
• Evaluating the combined feasibility of MCST and tDCS in chronic stroke is crucial.

Purpose of the Study:

• To assess the feasibility of a combined metacognitive strategy training (MCST) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) intervention in individuals with chronic stroke.
• To evaluate the acceptability, safety, and tolerability of the combined intervention.
• To measure the impact of the intervention on occupational performance.

Main Methods:

• A case series design was employed to evaluate the intervention.
• Participants underwent 12 sessions over 4 weeks, including 20 minutes of tDCS and 45 minutes of MCST per session.
• Feasibility outcomes (acceptability, safety) and occupational performance measures were assessed pre- and post-intervention.

Main Results:

• The combined MCST and tDCS intervention was perceived as highly acceptable and relevant by participants.
• Significant improvements were observed in both trained and untrained occupational performance goals.
• High effect sizes (Hedge's g) indicated large improvements in performance (2.07) and satisfaction (2.11) for trained goals, and (1.25) and (1.43) for untrained goals.

Conclusions:

• A combined intervention of metacognitive strategy training (MCST) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is feasible and well-received in chronic stroke survivors.
• This approach shows promise for enhancing occupational performance and satisfaction.
• Further research is warranted to explore the efficacy of this combined neurorehabilitation strategy.