Comparing the Efficacy of tDCS and tRNS to Improve Reading Skills in Children and Adolescents With Dyslexia
Comparing the Efficacy of tDCS and tRNS to Improve Reading Skills in Children and Adolescents With Dyslexia
The present study grounds on the absence of evidence-based treatment in individuals with developmental dyslexia (DD). At this topic, the present study will explore the potential effect of transcranial random noise stimulation (tRNS) and transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) over bilateral temporo-parietal cortex (TPC), cerebral areas usually disrupted in individuals with DD.
The investigators hypothesized that active tRNS and tDCS over TPC will boost reading skills in children and adolescents with DD. On the contrary, sham (placebo) tRNS and tDCS over TPC will not have significant effect in improving reading skills. Further, both active and sham tRNS and tDCS will be safe and well tolerated.
The study design is within-subject, randomized stratified, double blind, placebo-controlled.
A group of children and adolescents with DD will be selected and exposed to three different conditions with an interval-session of at least 6 days: 1. tRNS over bilateral TPC; 2. anodal tDCS over left TPC (cathode over right TPC); 3. sham tRNS or tDCS. During stimulation (both real and sham), participants will undergo a concomitant reading task.
In this project, the investigators will work to understand whether a brain-based intervention, with the use of tRNS and tDCS, can improve the outcome of individuals with DD.
The protocol will allow the investigators to:
The investigator's overarching goal is to provide a scientific foundation for devising new rehabilitation strategies in DD, based on the two most used brain stimulation techniques in pediatric population.
Inclusion Criteria:
Exclusion Criteria: