tDCS + Bimanual Therapy for Cerebral Palsy
Trial Summary
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial requires that participants have not taken spasticity medication within 6 months before the study. If you are currently on such medication, you would need to stop it to be eligible.
What data supports the effectiveness of the treatment tDCS + Bimanual Therapy for Cerebral Palsy?
Research suggests that combining transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with bimanual therapy may improve hand function in children with cerebral palsy, although the specific effects of tDCS alone are not significant. Studies indicate that children with certain brain connectivity patterns may benefit more from this combined approach.12345
Is tDCS combined with bimanual therapy safe for people with cerebral palsy?
Research shows that transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is generally safe for children with cerebral palsy, with only mild and temporary side effects like headaches and skin irritation reported. No serious adverse events were observed in studies involving tDCS, whether used alone or combined with therapies like bimanual training.12367
How does the tDCS + Bimanual Therapy treatment for cerebral palsy differ from other treatments?
This treatment combines transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, with intensive bimanual therapy to enhance motor function in children with cerebral palsy. It is unique because it targets the brain hemisphere connected to the impaired muscles, potentially improving the effectiveness of physical rehabilitation compared to traditional therapies.12345
What is the purpose of this trial?
The goal of this study is to test the efficacy of transcranial direct current stimulation combined with bimanual training on hand function in children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy (USCP). Children who enroll in the protocol will be randomized to receive either sham (not stimulating) tDCS plus bimanual training, or active (stimulating) tDCS plus bimanual training.
Research Team
Kathleen Friel, PhD
Principal Investigator
Burke Medical Research Institute
Eligibility Criteria
This trial is for children with unilateral spastic cerebral palsy who can follow instructions, lift and grasp light objects with the affected hand, and extend their wrist at least 15 degrees. Parents must consent. Children who've had selective dorsal rhizotomy or seizures after age 2 are excluded.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants receive either sham or active tDCS combined with 120 minutes of bimanual training daily
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for safety and effectiveness after treatment
Treatment Details
Interventions
- Active tDCS
- Bimanual Training
Active tDCS is already approved in United Kingdom, Brazil for the following indications:
- Depression
- Depression
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
Burke Medical Research Institute
Lead Sponsor
University of Minnesota
Collaborator
Teachers College, Columbia University
Collaborator