Pupil-Indexed Noninvasive Neuromodulation

ConditionParesis
Trial statusRecruiting
Trial phaseNot applicable
Trial typeInterventional
Biological sexAll
Age18-75
SponsorVA Office of Research and Development

About this trial

Vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) is thought to activate neural pathways that release chemicals which promote plasticity and learning. Previous work has shown that the auricular branch of the vagus nerve innervates landmarks on the external ear. Work from the PI's laboratory has shown that electrical current applied to the external ear modulates physiological indexes of brain states implicated in the therapeutic effects of VNS. The broad objective of this project is to better understand physiological mechanisms modulated by auricular stimulation to support possible therapeutic effects in the form of motor learning.

Eligibility criteria

Qualifiers

18-75 years of age

Diagnosis of a single stroke resulting in hand impairment

Diagnosis of stroke at least six months prior to the time of participation

Disqualifiers

History of vestibular disorders or dizziness

Difficulty maintaining alertness and/or remaining still

Pregnant or expecting to become pregnant

Diagnosis of neurological and/or musculoskeletal disorder(s) (other than stroke) that affect movement

Trial design

Treatments tested in this trial

  • Transcutaneous Electrical Stimulation
  • Sham

Treatment groups

110 Participants
are divided into 5 treatment groups