Efficacy Basics of Bihemispheric Motorcortex Stimulation After Stroke

Efficacy Basics of Bihemispheric Motorcortex Stimulation After Stroke

The aim of the study is to investigate whether the combination of bihemispheric ("dual") transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) and motor training on 5 consecutive days facilitates motor recovery in chronic stroke. Results will be compared to a matched group of patients undergoing anodal tDCS as well as a control group receiving sham tDCS. Functional and structural magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) before/after the intervention and during a 3 month follow-up will help investigating neural correlates of expected changes in motor function of the affected upper extremity.

Inclusion Criteria:

• chronic stroke (>6 months after stroke)
• age: 18 to 80 years
• non-hemorrhagic or hemorrhagic stroke

Exclusion Criteria:

• more than 1 stroke
• severe alcohol disease or drug abuse, severe psychiatric disease like depression or psychosis
• severe cognitive deficits
• severe untreated medical conditions
• other neurologic diseases
• severe microangiopathy
• pregnancy