Efficacy of cerebellar cathodal transcranial direct current stimulation for post-stroke aphasia: A randomized controlled trial.

OBJECTIVE

Growing evidence highlights the cerebellum, particularly the right posterior lobule, in advanced language processes such as fluency, syntax, and phonological memory. However, its specific role in post-stroke aphasia recovery-especially its modulation of cortical networks and functional connectivity (FC)-remains unclear, which limits targeted intreventions.

METHODS

Sixteen post-stroke aphasia patients were randomized to receive either cerebellar transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) with speech therapy or sham stimulation with therapy. Language performance was assessed via the Chinese Standard Aphasia Scale (CRRCAE), and brain activation was monitored using functional near-infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS).

RESULTS

Both groups showed significant CRRCAE score improvements post-treatment (P < 0.05), without between-group differences (P > 0.05). FC reductions were noted across several interhemispheric and right-hemispheric pathways, while increased FC was observed in left hemisphere language-related areas.

CONCLUSION

After baseline adjustment, the intervention group showed superior gains. Cerebellar tDCS modulates FC, suggesting a potential mechanism for enhancing aphasia recovery.

SIGNIFICANCE: Findings support the cerebellum as a promising neuromodulation target for post-stroke aphasia treatment.