Study of Tongue Stimulation Combined With Upper Limb Strength Training to Improve Arm Movement and Brain Recovery After Stroke

What this Trial Is About

This research is focused on individuals who have experienced a stroke and suffer from lasting muscle weakness in their affected upper limb, which greatly reduces their daily functioning and independence. The study aims to evaluate whether combining a personalized upper limb strength training program with a novel brain stimulation technique called cranial nerve non-invasive neuromodulation CN-NINM can improve arm motor function and promote brain plasticity in people at the chronic stage of stroke recovery. Participants will take part in a 4-week upper limb strength training program conducted three times per week, lasting 60 minutes each session. During the first 20 minutes of each session, participants will receive either real or sham CN-NINM via a device placed on the tongue that stimulates cranial nerves linked to motor control. The strength training intensity will be tailored according to each participants baseline motor evoked potential MEP amplitude, with training loads adjusted weekly to maximize recovery potential. Throughout the study, participants will undergo clinical and neurophysiological assessments before and after the intervention, including tests of upper limb motor function and measurement of brain excitability using transcranial magnetic stimulation. Researchers will monitor changes in motor ability, functional performance, range of motion, and neuroplasticity indicators to determine the effects of CN-NINM combined with tailored training. The total involvement includes a 4-week training period with detailed evaluations at baseline and post-training to measure progress and brain changes.

Cranial Nerve Neuromodulation to Improve Arm Function and Brain Plasticity in Stroke