Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Intensive Therapy in Aphasia

Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) and Intensive Therapy in Aphasia

Intensive therapy for aphasia has been demonstrated to improve language functioning after stroke or other neurological injury. However, recovery is generally not complete and new therapies are needed to improve outcomes. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to improve outcomes with motor therapy after stroke. This study will examine the feasibility of using tDCS with intensive language therapy as a way of enhancing language outcomes in aphasia

Intensive therapy for aphasia has been demonstrated to improve language functioning after stroke or other neurological injury. However, recovery is generally not complete and new therapies are needed to improve outcomes. Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) has been shown to improve outcomes with motor therapy after stroke. This study will examine the feasibility of using tDCS supplementing clinically determined intensive language therapy as a way of enhancing language outcomes in aphasia. Eligible clients enrolled in the University of Michigan Aphasia Program (UMAP) will be invited to participate in the study. Clients will receive 20 minutes of tDCS every day along with their usual treatment protocol. Pre and post testing will be completed to assess for improvement in language functioning. This is a feasibility and proof of concept study to determine if a randomized control trial should be pursued

Inclusion Criteria:

• Diagnosis of aphasia
• Enrolled in intensive therapy program at the University of Michigan Aphasia Program.
• Ability to understand and give consent to treatment.

Exclusion Criteria:

• No metal implants or surgical devices
• History of seizures
• History of significant cognitive or psychiatric disturbance
• Participant cannot be pregnant at the time of study