TMS for Speech
What You Need to Know Before You Apply
What is the purpose of this trial?
This trial explores how the brain controls speech in healthy individuals by using transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to study brain activity. The goal is to understand how people perceive their own speech errors and learn new speech sounds, potentially aiding those with communication disorders in the future. Participants will attend four sessions, each lasting 2-4 hours. The trial seeks English-speaking adults with normal hearing and speech, no history of neurological conditions, and no metal implants or heart disease. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to contribute to groundbreaking research that could enhance future therapies for communication disorders.
Will I have to stop taking my current medications?
The trial does not specify if you need to stop taking your current medications. However, if you are on medications that increase the risk of seizures or are considered 'epileptogenic,' you may not be eligible to participate.
What prior data suggests that TMS is safe for healthy adult speakers?
Research has shown that transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is generally safe for people. Studies indicate that TMS can be used without serious side effects in both healthy individuals and those with certain conditions. For instance, one study found that TMS safely improved speech in patients with post-stroke speech problems. Another report confirmed that TMS is well-tolerated for speech therapy, without major negative effects. Overall, evidence suggests that TMS is a safe method to study how the brain controls speech.12345
Why are researchers excited about this trial?
Researchers are excited about Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for speech because it offers a non-invasive approach to potentially enhance speech capabilities, unlike traditional speech therapy methods. While most speech interventions rely on exercises and practice to improve articulation and fluency, TMS works by directly stimulating specific brain regions involved in speech production. This novel mechanism could lead to faster improvements in speech, making it a promising option for individuals seeking efficient alternatives to conventional therapies.
What evidence suggests that TMS is effective for understanding speech processing?
Research has shown that Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) can improve speech abilities. For example, studies have found that TMS enhances spontaneous speech, repetition, and reading in patients. This trial will explore the effects of TMS on healthy adult speakers across different age groups. When combined with speech therapy, TMS significantly improves conditions like anomic aphasia. Another study found that TMS, combined with speech rehabilitation, greatly boosted speech recovery after a stroke. These findings suggest TMS could effectively aid in understanding and improving speech.23467
Who Is on the Research Team?
Carrie Niziolek, PhD
Principal Investigator
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Are You a Good Fit for This Trial?
This trial is for healthy individuals interested in how the brain controls speech. Participants should be available for 4 visits, each lasting 2-4 hours. The eligibility criteria are not fully listed here, so potential participants would need to contact the researchers for more details.Inclusion Criteria
Exclusion Criteria
Timeline for a Trial Participant
Screening
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial
Treatment
Participants undergo transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) sessions targeting the primary somatosensory cortex using iTBS, cTBS, and sham stimulation.
Follow-up
Participants are monitored for changes in speech production and sensory adaptation after TMS sessions.
What Are the Treatments Tested in This Trial?
Interventions
- TMS
Find a Clinic Near You
Who Is Running the Clinical Trial?
University of Wisconsin, Madison
Lead Sponsor
National Institute on Deafness and Other Communication Disorders (NIDCD)
Collaborator