Related Experiment Video
Updated: Aug 15, 2026
08:53
Randomized, Triple-Blind, and Parallel-Controlled Trial of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Cognitive Rehabilitation after Stroke
Published on: June 6, 2025
Advances in Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation for Poststroke Balance Recovery: Current Evidence,
Luana Paixão1, Jefferson Rosa Cardoso1
1Laboratory of Biomechanics and Clinical Epidemiology, PAIFIT Research Group, Associated Graduate Program in Rehabilitation Science UEL-Unopar, Universidade Estadual de Londrina, Londrina, Brazil.
Summary
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) may improve balance after stroke. The Cz region is a common target, with intensities of 1-2 mA, often combined with physical therapy. Further research is needed for standardized protocols.
Area of Science:
- Neuroscience
- Rehabilitation Medicine
- Biomedical Engineering
Background:
- Balance impairments are common after stroke, increasing fall risk and reducing quality of life.
- Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a noninvasive neuromodulatory technique with debated effectiveness for poststroke balance.
- Study registration number: CRD420251177329.
Purpose of the Study:
- To synthesize current literature on tDCS for poststroke balance.
- To identify frequently applied tDCS stimulation protocols.
- To determine physical therapy approaches commonly combined with tDCS.
Main Methods:
- Systematic literature search across major databases (inception to December 2025).
- Data extraction using a standardized form and reference management in EndNote (Web).
- Keyword cooccurrence and citation network analyses performed using VOSviewer.
Main Results:
- Six studies met inclusion criteria; the Cz region was the most frequent stimulation target.
- Anodal tDCS intensities ranged from 1 to 2 mA; protocols varied from single sessions to four-week programs.
- tDCS was combined with treadmill gait training in two studies; keyword analysis revealed links between stroke, tDCS, physical therapy, and neuroplasticity.
Conclusions:
- Current literature suggests tDCS may enhance poststroke balance.
- Systematic reviews favor Cz placement with 1-2 mA intensities, but individual trials show heterogeneous protocols.
- Further high-quality trials are needed to standardize protocols for optimal clinical translation.
