Clinical Research Studies

We are looking to enroll patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). The purpose of this study is to see if transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) combined with manual dexterity training (hand and finger exercises) can improve certain fine motor skills in patients with Multiple Sclerosis (MS). tDCS is a noninvasive method of stimulating areas of the brain by passing a low electrical current between two points known as electrodes. Fine motor skills involve the coordination of small muscle movements, such as grasping and lifting as well as adjust these movements based on an object's properties such as size and shape, texture, weight, etc. A major symptom of MS is the loss of fine motor skills, which makes it increasingly difficult to grasp and lift objects. This study will also see if the combination of tDCS and manual dexterity training improves the ability to learn how to use appropriate fingertip forces based on an objects properties to grasp and lift the object. The device used to administer tDCS in this study is called the Soterix Mini-CT. It is considered investigational in this study because it is not approved by the US Food and Drug Administration for commercial use. To assess grasp execution and learning, patients will utilize a novel portable grip device.