Related Experiment Video
Updated: Apr 13, 2026
Randomized, Triple-Blind, and Parallel-Controlled Trial of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Cognitive Rehabilitation after Stroke
Published on: June 6, 2025
Efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation on cognitive function in post stroke cognitive impairment: A
Yang Zhang1,2,3, Keshu Yang4, Chengbiao Ding1,2,5
1Department of Rehabilitation Medicine, The Second Hospital of Anhui Medical University, Hefei, Anhui, China.
Background:
Post-stroke cognitive impairment (PSCI) significantly hinders recovery. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a promising intervention, yet its efficacy varies, and the optimal therapeutic window remains debated.
Objectives:
To evaluate the efficacy of tDCS on global cognition, memory, and executive function in PSCI and determine if stroke onset duration influences treatment outcomes.
Methods:
We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis of randomized controlled trials (RCTs) searched from databases including PubMed, Embase, and Cochrane Library up to January 2026. Outcomes included Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), Mini-Mental State Examination (MMSE), memory, and executive function. Subgroup analyses stratified patients by stroke chronicity (<6 months vs. >6 months).
Results:
Twenty RCTs involving 772 patients were included. tDCS significantly improved global cognition (MoCA: MD = 2.11, 95% CI [0.93, 3.30], p = 0.0005). Crucially, subgroup analysis revealed significant cognitive improvement in patients treated within 6 months post-stroke (MD = 2.51, p < 0.0001), whereas those treated after 6 months showed no significant benefit (MD = 0.37, p = 0.38). Significant improvements were also observed in memory and executive function.
Conclusions:
tDCS effectively enhances cognition in PSCI. However, efficacy is time-dependent, suggesting a "critical window" for intervention within the first 6 months post-stroke. Early application is recommended.
Registration Number:
CRD42024543596.
