Related Experiment Video
Updated: Sep 18, 2025
Randomized, Triple-Blind, and Parallel-Controlled Trial of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Cognitive Rehabilitation after Stroke
Published on: June 6, 2025
Randomized, Triple-Blind, and Parallel-Controlled Trial of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Cognitive
Begoña González Rodríguez1, Elena M Marrón2, Marcos Ríos-Lago3
1Brain Damage Unit, Fundación Hospitalarias Madrid; International doctoral school, Universidad Nacional de Educación a Distancia (UNED); Departamento Posgrado Psicología, Faculty of Biomedical and Health Sciences, Universidad Europea de Madrid; bgonzalez899@alumno.uned.es.
This study introduces a novel treatment combining transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with cognitive therapy to reduce hemispatial neglect after stroke. The protocol aims to improve patient outcomes and quality of life.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Medical Technology
Background:
- Right hemisphere stroke often causes hemispatial neglect, hindering recovery and leading to poor cognitive and motor outcomes.
- Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) shows promise in enhancing cortical plasticity and functional recovery.
- Current interventions for hemispatial neglect can be lengthy and may not fully restore function.
Purpose of the Study:
- To describe a novel combined intervention protocol for reducing post-stroke hemispatial neglect.
- To evaluate the feasibility and potential efficacy of concurrent tDCS and cognitive rehabilitation.
- To investigate the neuromodulation strategy of reducing undamaged hemisphere hyperactivity via interhemispheric rivalry.
Main Methods:
- A 2-week protocol involving 10 sessions of concurrent cathodal tDCS and computerized neuropsychological rehabilitation for hemispatial neglect.
- High-definition tDCS (HD-tDCS) applied at 2 mA for 20 minutes, with the cathode over the left posterior parietal cortex (P3).
- A parallel, randomized, triple-blind experimental design with baseline and post-intervention assessments.
Main Results:
- A single pilot participant's procedures are detailed to demonstrate protocol feasibility.
- The study protocol is designed to assess potential efficacy in reducing hemispatial neglect symptoms.
- Preliminary findings suggest the combined approach may shorten intervention times.
Conclusions:
- Combining tDCS with cognitive rehabilitation offers a promising strategy for hemispatial neglect treatment.
- This integrated approach may improve functional status and patient quality of life.
- Further research is warranted to confirm the efficacy of this novel intervention.
