What this study is
This project investigates an innovative combination of non-invasive neuromodulation (transcranial direct current stimulation - tDCS) and cognitive training as a novel treatment approach aimed at improving function in individuals suffering from persistent post-concussive syndrome (PPCS) following mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI).
What's being tested
- Active tDCS
Intervention · DEVICE
All participants will receive 10 sessions of cognitive training focused on executive functions, delivered over approximately 3 weeks. Cognitive training will be completed on a lab provided computer using PositScience BrainHQ or TaskFlow software. Concurrently, during each training session, participants will receive either active or sham tDCS. Stimulation will be delivered via saline-soaked sponge electrodes using the Soterix 1x1 miniCT TES device. The anode (active electrode) will be placed over the L-DLPFC (approximated by EEG coordinate F3) and the cathode (reference electrode) over the contralateral supraorbital area (Fp2). The active tDCS group will receive 2mA constant current for 20 minutes.
- Sham tDCS
Intervention · DEVICE
All participants will receive 10 sessions of cognitive training focused on executive functions, delivered over approximately 3 weeks. Cognitive training will be completed on a lab provided computer using PositScience BrainHQ or TaskFlow software. Concurrently, during each training session, participants will receive either active or sham tDCS. Stimulation will be delivered via saline-soaked sponge electrodes using the Soterix 1x1 miniCT TES device. The anode (active electrode) will be placed over the L-DLPFC (approximated by EEG coordinate F3) and the cathode (reference electrode) over the contralateral supraorbital area (Fp2). The sham tDCS group will receive a brief ramp up and ramp down of current at the beginning and end of the 20 minutes to mimic the sensation of active stimulation.
Study details
- Official title
- Targeting Neuroplasticity for Persistent Post-Concussive Cognitive Symptoms: A Trial of tDCS and Cognitive Training 3-12 Months Post-mTBI
- Sponsor
- University of Minnesota
- Conditions
- Persistent Post Concussion Syndrome · Mild Traumatic Brain Injury
- Enrolling
- 30 people
- Starts
- 2026-03-05
- Est. completion
- 2028-01-01
- Design
- Quadruple-blind, randomized, parallel groups
- Record
- View on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗
Who can join
Age 18 Years – 65 YearsSex ALLHealthy volunteers Not acceptedYou may qualify if
- Age 18-65
- Has sustained a single mTBI 3-12 months prior to enrollment
- Meets criteria for PPCS (assessed using the CP Screen)
- Has reliable access to a smartphone
You can't join if
- Inability to provide informed consent or complete study procedures
- History of moderate/severe TBI
- Significant neurological or psychiatric disorders (other than PPCS-related symptoms like mild depression/anxiety)
- Substance dependence within the last six months
- Contraindications to tDCS (e.g., implanted metal, skin lesions on scalp)
Sign in and we'll check these against your records.Full criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗
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Study locations (1)
1 openUniversity of Minnesota
Minneapolis, Minnesota, United States
- Melanie Stimac · Contact612-301-2549stima011@umn.edu
Recruiting
Study team
Sponsor
University of Minnesota
Study ID PSYCH-2025-34246
Principal investigator
Jazmin Camchong, PhD
University of Minnesota
Frequently asked questions
The sponsor hasn't published answers to common questions for this trial.