Assessing the Effects of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Brain Connectivity and Recovery in Children Aged 10 to 15 with Mild Traumatic Brain Injury

What this Trial Is About

Researchers are investigating the effects of mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI) in children aged 10 to 15 years, focusing on persistent motor and cognitive difficulties that affect daily functioning. The study aims to test a brain stimulation method called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) alongside evaluating objective tools that record and restore communication between affected brain areas to support recovery in youth after mTBI. This research addresses the lack of objective biomarkers and standard treatments for childhood mTBI, which can disrupt neurodevelopment and lead to chronic neurological problems. The study involves two groups: 10 youths with mTBI who will receive both real and sham tDCS treatments in a cross-over design, and 10 healthy age- and gender-matched controls who will not receive any intervention. The tDCS treatment consists of ten sessions of 1.5 mA stimulation applied using specialized devices with electrodes placed on targeted brain regions, followed by a two-week washout period before switching treatments. Behavioral and neuroimaging tests will be conducted before and after each treatment phase, as well as at a 30-day follow-up. Participants will undergo various assessments, including motor control tests, cognitive and neurological exams, and functional MRI scans to monitor changes in brain connectivity and function. Measurements will be taken at multiple time points: initial visit, after anodal and sham tDCS treatments, and during follow-up visits. The study will also track mood and anxiety levels and cognitive abilities using standardized questionnaires. Overall participation lasts about 94 days, allowing researchers to evaluate the impact of tDCS on recovery and brain function over time.

Neuromodulation and Neuroimaging in Older Children With Mild Traumatic Brain Injury