Using brain stimulation to improve physical therapy for carpal tunnel syndrome

Enhancing Physical Therapy: Noninvasive Brain Stimulation System for Treating Carpal Tunnel Syndrome

['FUNDING_SBIR_2'] · HIGHLAND INSTRUMENTS, INC. · NIH-10706948

This study is exploring a new way to help people with carpal tunnel syndrome by using a special non-invasive treatment that targets how the brain processes pain, aiming to make physical therapy more effective and reduce chronic pain.

Quick facts

Phase['FUNDING_SBIR_2']
Study typeNih_funding
SexAll
SponsorHIGHLAND INSTRUMENTS, INC. (nih funded)
Locations1 site (CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES)
Trial IDNIH-10706948 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this research studies

This research investigates a novel approach to treating carpal tunnel syndrome (CTS) by utilizing a non-invasive brain stimulation system called Electrosonic Stimulation (ESStim™). The study aims to address chronic pain associated with CTS by targeting the brain's processing of pain sensations, rather than just the peripheral symptoms. By combining electromagnetic and ultrasonic fields, this method seeks to enhance the effectiveness of physical therapy and improve patient outcomes. Participants will undergo treatment that focuses on altering brain activity related to pain perception.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals diagnosed with carpal tunnel syndrome who experience chronic pain.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have carpal tunnel syndrome or those whose pain is not related to neurological factors may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could significantly reduce chronic pain for patients suffering from carpal tunnel syndrome, leading to improved quality of life.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown that non-invasive brain stimulation can be effective in treating chronic pain in other conditions, suggesting potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

CAMBRIDGE, UNITED STATES

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.

View on NIH RePORTER →

Conditions: Carpal Tunnel Syndrome, Disease, Disorder

Last reviewed 2026-05-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.