Efficacy of Trans-auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation on Upper Extremity Motor Recovery in Stroke Survivors

Universidade Federal de Pernambuco

Status and phase

Enrolling

Phase 2

Conditions

Stroke

Treatments

Device: Active taVNS

Device: Sham taVNS

Study type

Interventional

Funder types

Other

Identifiers

NCT07132021

taVNS_UpperExtremity

Details and patient eligibility

About

The aim of this clinical trial is to determine if trans-auricular vagus nerve stimulation (taVNS) is effective in improving upper extremity function in stroke survivors. The primary objectives include: Investigating whether taVNS improves motor function in stroke survivors. The secondary objectives include: Assessing any potential side effects associated with the method. Investigating taVNS effects on daily routine functions and spasticity Researchers will conduct a comparative analysis between taVNS and a sham procedure (which mimics the stimulation without any actual effect) to assess its effectiveness. Participants in the trial will: Undergo taVNS combined with physical therapy or a sham procedure with physical therapy daily over a two-week period.

Enrollment

30 estimated patients

Sex

All

Ages

18 to 75 years old

Volunteers

No Healthy Volunteers

Inclusion criteria

Patients aged between 18 and 75 years, with motor impairment in the upper extremity caused by unilateral ischemic or hemorrhagic stroke with stroke onset within the last five years.

Exclusion criteria

Patients with any contraindication to taVNS, peripheral upper extremity injuries, use of medication affecting cortical excitability in the past 3 months, use of botulinum toxin in the past 3 months, presence of any other neurological disorder, or significant cognitive deficits.