Introduction: Due to its effects on brain neuroplasticity processes, transcranial direct-current stimulation (tDCS) has begun to be used as a complement to standard upper limb (UL) therapies after a stroke. However, the high heterogeneity of the protocols does not allow us to know the optimal therapeutic dose. This motivates the development of studies that define specific parameters, with patient-centered protocols oriented toward functional activities. Method/Design: The present randomized, double-blind clinical trial aims to compare the evolution of functional recovery of the UL in people with subacute stroke who attend the Hospital Clínico Universidad de Chile and the Hospital San José, after receiving 30 minutes of bi-hemispheric tDCS compared to those who receive 20 minutes of bi-hemispheric tDCS, in a protocol combined with modified constraint-induced movement therapy for 18 sessions. Patients will be evaluated with UL motor and functional recovery scales, independence in basic activities of daily living and quality of life, among others. Discussion: There are few dosage studies in the rehabilitation area. The results of the clinical trial will allow occupational therapists and rehabilitation professionals to have an effective proposal for the functional recovery of patients with stroke. ClinicalTrials NCT03452254.
Garrido et al. (Fri,) studied this question.