tDCS and Bimanual Therapy for Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy

tDCS and Bimanual Therapy for Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy

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.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of congenital hemiplegic cerebral palsy
• Ability to lift and grasp light objects with affected hand
• Ability to extend wrist of affected hand 15 degrees
• Ability to follow instructions and provide informed assent
• Parent(s) able to provide informed consent

Exclusion Criteria:

• Seizures after age 2 years
• Spasticity medication within 6 months before study
• Selective dorsal rhizotomy
• Surgery in affected upper extremity within year before study