Paired Brain and Nerve Stimulation for Cerebral Palsy

(SCAP-CP Trial)

This trial explores a new treatment using paired brain and nerve stimulation to help adults with hemiplegic cerebral palsy (hCP) improve arm and hand movement. The goal is to determine if this method can strengthen nervous system connections to enhance manual dexterity. Participants should maintain their usual levels of caffeine and exercise, have some ability to use their hands, and not have had recent seizures or use certain medications. If successful, researchers could test this approach further in larger studies. As an unphased trial, this study offers participants a unique opportunity to contribute to pioneering research that could lead to innovative treatments for hCP.

The trial requires that you do not use medications that lower the seizure threshold. If you are on such medications, you may need to stop taking them to participate.

Research shows that combining brain and nerve stimulation is generally safe and well-tolerated for people with cerebral palsy. Studies have found that a similar method, non-invasive brain stimulation (NIBS), can safely improve movement and function in children with cerebral palsy. These studies indicate that NIBS is not only safe but also effective in enhancing mobility and upper body function.

Previous research on non-invasive brain stimulation techniques did not show any major side effects. This suggests that the treatment is unlikely to cause harm when used at low levels, where stimulation remains below the threshold that typically causes a reaction.

Unlike the standard treatments for cerebral palsy, which typically include physical therapy, medication, and sometimes surgery, the paired brain and nerve stimulation technique offers a novel approach by directly targeting the brain and nerves. This method involves synchronized stimulation of the motor cortex and median nerve, aiming to improve motor function by enhancing neural connections in the cervical spinal cord. Researchers are excited about this treatment because it represents a non-invasive option that potentially promotes more precise and effective brain-to-muscle communication, which could lead to improved motor skills for individuals with cerebral palsy.

Research has shown that combining brain and nerve stimulation may enhance movement and hand use in individuals with cerebral palsy. In this trial, participants will receive paired motor cortical stimulation and median nerve stimulation. Studies have found that non-invasive brain stimulation can boost motor skills, reduce muscle stiffness, and enhance hand movement. Tests measuring movement ability support these findings. Early evidence suggests this treatment could be safe and practical for improving arm and hand function in cerebral palsy. Although more research in adults is needed, these promising results offer hope for a better quality of life.¹⁴⁶⁷⁸