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Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation on Hand Recovery and Quality of Life in Hemiparetic Cerebral Palsied Children
Sponsor: October 6 University
Summary
Transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) is a non-invasive brain stimulation technique that may help improve hand function in children with cerebral palsy. This study investigates whether tDCS combined with functional task training is more effective than functional task training alone for improving hand recovery and quality of life in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy. Sixty children aged 7 to 12 years with hemiparetic cerebral palsy will be randomly assigned to one of two groups. The experimental group will receive anodal tDCS at 2mA for 20 minutes, 3 times per week for 1 month, combined with 40 minutes of functional task training. The control group will receive functional task training alone for 60 minutes, 3 times per week for 1 month. Hand function will be measured using the Jebsen Taylor Hand Function Test and grip strength using a hand held dynamometer. Spasticity will be assessed using the Modified Ashworth Scale, and quality of life will be measured using the Pediatric Quality of Life Inventory 4.0 (PedsQL). All assessments will be conducted before and after the 1-month treatment period. The findings of this study may help determine whether adding tDCS to standard rehabilitation provides additional benefits for hand recovery and quality of life in children with hemiparetic cerebral palsy.
Official title: Effect of Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation Combined With Physiotherapy on Hand Function and Quality of Life in Children With Hemiparetic Cerebral Palsy: A Randomized Controlled Trial
Key Details
Gender
All
Age Range
7 Years - 12 Years
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
60
Start Date
2025-10-01
Completion Date
2026-05-01
Last Updated
2026-08-05
Healthy Volunteers
No
Conditions
Interventions
Transcranial Direct Current Stimulation
Anodal tDCS applied to the primary motor cortex of the affected hemisphere at an intensity of 1.5 mA for 20 minutes per session, 5 sessions per week for 4 weeks (total of 20 sessions). Active electrode (anode) placed over the motor cortex of the affected hemisphere; reference electrode (cathode) placed over the contralateral supraorbital region.
Functional Task Training
A structured 45-minute physiotherapy program including warm-up and mobility exercises, progressive resistance strength training, fine motor training (e.g., peg placement, object manipulation), bimanual training, and task-oriented training (e.g., grasping, stacking, utensil use). Delivered 5 sessions per week for 4 weeks.
Locations (1)
Out-patient Clinic, Faculty of Physical Therapy, October 6 University
Giza, Giza Governorate, Egypt