Post-stroke Fatigue, Inflammation, tDCS

Effects of tDCS on Post-stroke Fatigue and Inflammation

Fatigue is a common condition after an individual has a stroke. While the negative impacts of post-stroke fatigue are well known, the knowledge of the causes of post-stroke fatigue and effective treatments for post-stroke fatigue are lacking. This small study will investigate the possible benefits of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), which uses small electrical currents supplied by a 9-volt battery, on post-stroke fatigue and investigate tDCS' possible anti-inflammatory effects.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Men and women of any race or ethnicity
• 35-80 years of age
• 6+ months post-stroke
• Have clinically present fatigue for 6 months
• Able to walk 10m unassisted

Exclusion Criteria:

• Absolute contraindications to MRI, TMS (transcranial magnetic stimulation), or tDCS (e.g., implanted metal devices, history of seizure, and surgical clips or staples)
• Inability to understand and provide written informed consent
• Multiple strokes on opposite hemispheres
• Diagnosed comorbid neurological conditions (e.g. multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, and dementia)
• Severe hypertension
• Cerebellar or brainstem strokes/lesions
• Concurrent depression and/or anxiety disorders