Real-Time fMRI Neurofeedback Shows Promise for Reading Rehabilitation in Post-Stroke Aphasia

Highlights

This feasibility randomized controlled trial investigated real-time functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI) neurofeedback as a novel intervention for poststroke reading deficits. Contingent neurofeedback targeting the left supramarginal gyrus produced reading-specific activation changes and significant comprehension improvements compared with noncontingent controls. The findings support the feasibility of neuromodulation approaches during early stroke recovery, though confirmation awaits the ongoing definitive randomized controlled trial.

Key findings include significant reading comprehension improvements in the contingent neurofeedback group (mean difference 9.75 points versus healthy controls; 11.42 points versus noncontingent stroke group), accompanied by training-related activation increases localized to the left supramarginal gyrus during nonword reading tasks.