taVNS for Speech and Language Recovery in Aphasia

Non-invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation for Language Recovery in Aphasia

The goal of this research study is to evaluate a novel approach to improving speech recovery in those with acquired apraxia of speech. We will enroll participants with apraxia of speech resulting from stroke or brain injury to complete several tasks and intervention. Testing will take place four times over the course of the study and intervention will take place 5 days a week for 16 weeks. Overall, you can expect to spend up to 17 weeks participating in this study.

Inclusion Criteria:

• Adults between 18-80
• Native speakers of English or simultaneous bilinguals
• At least 6 months post stroke or TBI
• Diagnosed production type aphasia or apraxia of speech

Exclusion Criteria:

• Additional cognitive or neurological impairments (Autism, schizophrenia, seizures, etc)
• Language comprehension deficits
• Medications that influence key neurotransmitters