Possible Benefits of Brain Stimulation Following Stroke

Researchers participating in a clinical trial are evaluating whether stimulating the brain before rehabilitation could yield greater gains in motor function for people recovering from stroke. Experts say this approach could potentially unlock a totally new, non-invasive treatment to promote recovery and function. Shepherd Center is testing a navigated brain stimulation system that uses transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) to apply a mild electromagnetic current to excite the brain, a technique that can be used to both investigate the brain’s functions and change them. The goal is to improve a patient’s range of motion, coordination, flexibility, strength, and use of the weak arm and hand. At the end of study, researchers are interested to see whether patients are better able to perform daily activities. To read more about this study, click here.