Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation, a Form of Non-invasive Brain Stimulation, as a Possible Treatment for Post-stroke Fatigue.

Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phasePhase 2
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age34-80
SponsorVA Office of Research and Development

About this trial

This experimental trial is investigating the use of magnetic stimulation of the brain as a possible treatment for post-stroke fatigue in people who have had a stroke more than six months prior to enrolling. Fatigue is a common condition after a stroke and can negatively impact an individual's ability to perform desired social and physical activities. Magnetic stimulation of the brain has been shown to improve signs and symptoms of related psychological (e.g., depression) conditions. Participants in this trial will receive a type of magnetic stimulation called repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation, or rTMS. The investigators will measure feelings of fatigue and other clinical characteristics related to mood and cognition before and after participants receive rTMS.

Eligibility criteria

Qualifiers

34 - 80 years of age

more than 6 months post-stroke

Clinically present fatigue

Disqualifiers

Contraindications to MRI/TMS/rTMS (e.g. implanted metal within the head, history of seizures)

Inability to follow simple three-step instructions

Diagnosed comorbid neurological conditions (e.g. multiple sclerosis, Parkinson's disease, moderate/severe TBI)

Pregnancy

Trial design

Treatments tested in this trial

  • High frequency repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation
  • Sham repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation

Treatment groups

60 Participants
are divided into 2 treatment groups

Sponsors and collaborators

VA Office of Research and Development

Lead sponsor

Joseph Maxwell Cleland VA Medical Center

Collaborator