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Project

What is the optimal alternative training protocol for boosting neuroplasticity of the nervous system? The influence of tDCS and an optimized supplemental intervention on functional recovery of chronic stroke patients

Title
What is the optimal alternative training protocol for boostingneuroplasticity of the nervous system? The influence of tDCS and an optimized supplemental intervention on functional recovery of chronic stroke patients. 
Description 
This project addresses whethertranscranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) of the brain can enhance neuroplasticity in healthy adults and stroke survivors when applied during physical training or during supplementary interventions such as motor imagery and movement observation. tDCS is a non-invasive, safe, painless and cheap method that can be easily applied outside the hospital settings. Similarly, motor imagery and movement observation can be executed without further supervision, making them excellent interventions to increase amount and frequency of rehabilitation training alsooutside specialized centers. The general working hypothesis is that tDCS enhances the effect of physical practice and supplementary training (motor imagery /movement observation). In this translational research project, we will first test our hypothesis and identify the most effective intervention protocol in healthy subjects using a double-blind sham-controlled cross-overdesign to study behavioral and neural changes of the primary motor cortex. This study will inform a clinical phase in which the superior intervention protocol is compared to standard therapy of chronic stroke patients to test its therapeutic relevance using a double-blind, sham controlled, randomized clinical trial design. This study aims to bridge the gap that currently exists between fundamental research and the effective implementation of tDCS in clinical settings.
Date:1 Oct 2010 →  30 Sep 2014
Keywords:tDCS, Movement observation, TMS, Stroke patients, Neuroplasticity
Disciplines:Orthopaedics, Human movement and sports sciences, Rehabilitation sciences
Project type:PhD project