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Researchers from the University of ºù«Ӱҵ and ºù«Ӱҵ Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust are leading the TRICEPS trial, an ambitious study funded by the National Institute for Health and Care Research and the Medical Research Council. With the potential to transform life after stroke, this trial aims to address persistent arm weakness, a condition affecting roughly one in three stroke survivors.

Each year, around 110,000 people in the UK suffer a stroke, with many left facing challenges that limit their independence. Everyday tasks—like brushing teeth, cooking, or even pushing a supermarket trolley—can become increasingly difficult, profoundly impacting quality of life. 

Researchers are calling for stroke survivors across the UK to participate in this nationwide trial. The study is currently available at NHS centres in ºù«Ӱҵ, Bradford, Dorset, Doncaster, Leeds, Liverpool, London, and Manchester, and offers new hope for those affected.

The £2 million TRICEPS trial uses an innovative approach known as transcutaneous vagus nerve stimulation (TVNS). Unlike earlier treatments requiring surgical implants, TVNS in this trial is delivered through a portable, wearable device connected to a wired earpiece. When participants move their arms during therapy exercises, the device sends mild electrical pulses to stimulate areas of the brain impacted by stroke, gently activating them with each movement.

Professor Arshad Majid, Professor of Cerebrovascular Neurology at the University of ºù«Ӱҵ and Consultant Neurologist at ºù«Ӱҵ Teaching Hospitals NHS Foundation Trust, said:  "We're really excited to be leading this revolutionary trial, which could transform the lives of those left with permanent arm weakness after a stroke. TVNS has shown huge promise in a preliminary trial where the device was surgically implanted, but through this trial, larger numbers of stroke survivors are set to benefit.

"Although strokes are more common in people aged 65 or over, they can happen to anyone, at any time. Human nervous tissue is rapidly lost as a stroke progresses, so if a stroke does happen, it’s important to ring 999 straight away to limit the damage to the brain and ensure life-saving treatments are given."

The trial is open to individuals who suffered a stroke from six months to 10 years ago, providing a unique opportunity for a broad range of stroke survivors. Trial participants will be randomly assigned either the TVNS device or a placebo device, which they’ll wear for an hour, five times a week while completing rehabilitation exercises at home. Some participants may also be asked to wear the device during daily activities for 12 weeks, with support from community physiotherapists and occupational therapists.

The TRICEPS trial could provide a life-changing boost to independence for stroke survivors, helping them reclaim everyday functions and improve their overall quality of life. This trial marks a significant step forward in stroke rehabilitation, and researchers are eager to bring its benefits to those who need it most.

For those interested, further information can be found at the link below, or by contacting triceps@sheffield.ac.uk.