Effects of Dual-transcranial Direct Current Stimulation During Physical Therapy in Sub-acute Stroke

Effects of Dual-transcranial Direct Current Stimulation During Physical Therapy in Sub-acute Stroke

The aim of the present study is to evaluate the possible effect of using dual-tDCS applied during conventional physical therapy on lower limb function in stroke patients.

Recently dual-tDCS applied before the conventional physical therapy show positive effect of lower limb performance. However to explore the time during which dual-tDCS can be combined with physical therapy to maximize motor performance is required. Results from the present study with be compared with our previous study that used dual-tDCS applied before physical therapy.

Inclusion Criteria:

1. Age range 18-75 years.
2. First ever-ischemic lesion in the territory of middle cerebral artery or anterior cerebral artery. CT scan/MRI result is thus required.
3. Sub acute phase of stroke (less than 6 months)
4. Able to sit-to-stand and stand-to-sit independently
5. Able to walk without physical assistance at least 6 m
6. Free of any neurological antecedent, unstable medical conditions or condition that may increase the risk of stimulation such as epilepsy

Exclusion Criteria:

1. Pre-stroke disability
2. Pregnant
3. Be unable to understand the instruction
4. No clear neurological antecedent history or psychiatric disorder
5. Excessive pain in any joint of the paretic limb (numerical pain rating score > 7)
6. Presence of intracranial metal implantation, cochlea implant, or cardiac pacemaker
7. Subjects are participating in the other protocol or receiving alternative treatment such as acupuncture