Effects of Bimanual Training

What Do We Do?

We are using targeted or untargeted transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with hand-arm bimanual intensive therapy to observe the effects on upper extremity function and observe effects on corticospinal tract (CST) activity in children who have unilateral spastic cerebral palsy. In other words, we are observing whether these two therapies combined will improve connectivity between the brain and the affected limb. 

What should I expect at each visit?

In the pre- and post-training portions, children will be required to undergo various motor skill tests, a transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) session, and an MRI session. During the bimanual training, children will undergo a 20-minute tDCS session, during which they will begin their two hours of structured play and functional activities.

Timeline

• Pre-training assessments one week prior to bimanual training
• Bimanual training 2 hours/day for 5 consecutive days (A total of 10 hours of training)
• Post-training assessments immediately after bimanual training
• A second round of post-training assessments six months after training

How Much Does It Cost?

• Free of charge. Travel costs may be covered by the sponsor
• Participants will receive renumeration for each TMS session