Trial Parameters
Brief Summary
Researchers at the University of Pittsburgh are conducting a research study to see how combining brain, nerve, and hand stimulation affect hand movement after stroke. The primary purpose of this study is to examine changes in the connection between the brain and the weak hand muscles after the combined brain, nerve, and hand stimulation. The primary hypothesis is that the combined brain, nerve, and hand stimulation will increase the the connection between the brain and the weak hand muscles. The secondary purpose of this study is to examine changes in weak hand's movement and function after the combined brain, nerve, and hand stimulation. The secondary hypothesis is that the combined brain, nerve, and hand stimulation will increase weak hand movement and function.
Eligibility Criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age between 18-85 years 2. Diagnosis of first-ever subcortical stroke (single cerebrovascular accident) 3. Stroke onset of at least six months prior to the time of participation 4. A score of at least 1 out of 2 on the spherical grasping item of the Fugl-Meyer Upper Extremity Subscale to allow participants to grasp the ball 5. Cognitive skills to actively participate, as indicated by scores of \> 23 on the Mini-Mental Status Examination 6. English speaking Exclusion Criteria: 1. Inability to elicit a motor evoked potential (MEP) in the EDC muscle even with a 20% background muscle contraction 2. Presence of severe aphasia 3. Excessive spasticity of the wrist and finger muscles, defined as a Modified Ashworth Score \>2 4. Diagnosis of neurological disorders other than stroke 5. History of seizure or epilepsy 6. Orthopedic/musculoskeletal conditions (e.g., arthritis) affecting the upper extremity 7. Presence of metallic implants in the head or neck 8. Currently or p