Comparing Two Types of Non-Invasive Vagus Nerve Stimulation with Task Exercises to Improve Arm Function, Thinking Skills, and Quality of Life in People 45 to 70 Years Old After Stroke

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating whether transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation tVNS applied via the ear auricular branch or neck cervical branch can improve recovery in patients who have had a subacute stroke. The study aims to compare these two stimulation methods combined with task-specific training to see their effects on upper limb motor function, cognitive abilities such as attention, memory, and executive function, and overall quality of life. This research seeks to provide clinicians with evidence-based guidance for using tVNS to enhance functional independence in stroke survivors. Participants are assigned to one of two groups one receives tVNS through clip electrodes placed on the ear areas traguscymba concha along with task-specific exercises, while the other group receives tVNS via pad electrodes on the neck alongside the same exercises. Both groups undergo stimulation with a TENS device set to 25 Hz frequency, 1 mA intensity, and 30 minutes per session, five days a week for eight weeks. Exercises include grip and release activities, reaching tasks, bilateral arm movements, and tabletop activities designed to improve coordination and arm function. During the study, participants will be assessed at baseline, after 4 weeks, and after 8 weeks using the Fugl-Meyer Assessment for upper limb function, the Montreal Cognitive Assessment for cognition, and the Wolf Motor Function Test. Quality of life is measured with the Stroke-Specific Quality of Life Scale at the same intervals. The study involves randomized assignment and double masking to compare the two tVNS approaches. Participants can expect regular monitoring of motor and cognitive progress and quality of life throughout the treatment period, which lasts eight weeks.

Comperative Effects of Transcutaneous Auricular and Cervical Vagus Nerve Stimulation in Subacute Stroke Patients