The Effectiveness of transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) for Improving the Naming of a Patient with Apraxia: A Single Case Study

Authors: Valinejad V and Khatoonabadi AR

DOI: 10.23880/nnoaj-16000144

Volume 4, Issue 3

Abstract

Aim: Studies have shown that transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (tDCS) can modulate cortical activity and performance of both healthy and brain-damaged people. In the present study, we investigated the effect of tDCS on the recovery of naming in one patient with apraxia of speech. Methods: After establishing a baseline in 3 weeks, the participant received regular speech therapy for 3 weeks alongside with tDCS. The participant received anodic stimulation over the left inferior frontal gyrus (Broca’s area) while he performed the repetition task. Results: The results showed that the participant improved in the naming task after language treatment combined with tDCS in the treatment phase in comparison to the baseline phase, and this difference was clinically significant (RCI=2.652). Discussion: This study showed that associating the language therapy with noninvasive brain stimulation (e.g. tDCS) can have a positive effect on rehabilitation outcomes in patients with acquired apraxia of speech.

Keywords: Stroke; Aphasia; Language Rehabilitation; Brain Simulation; Apraxia of Speech; TDCS

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