Accelerated TMS treatment for focal hand dystonia
Duke Accelerated Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation for Focal Hand Dystonia
This study is testing if a quick series of brain stimulation sessions can help people with focal hand dystonia improve their hand function and writing skills.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Duke University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Durham, North Carolina) |
| Trial ID | NCT06015672 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of accelerated transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on brain function and behavior in patients with isolated focal hand dystonia. Participants will undergo four TMS sessions in one day, with assessments conducted at four, twelve, and twenty weeks post-treatment. The study includes eight in-person visits and six virtual visits, focusing on functional MRI brain scans and writing behavior analysis. Safety measures are in place to minimize the risk of seizures associated with TMS.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are right-hand dominant adults aged 18 and older diagnosed with isolated focal hand dystonia.
Not a fit: Patients with other neurological movement disorders, a history of seizure disorders, or those currently receiving certain medications may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve dystonic behavior and enhance understanding of brain changes in patients with focal hand dystonia.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with TMS in treating dystonia, suggesting potential for success in this novel accelerated approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * 18yrs and older * Diagnosed with isolated focal hand by Neurologist * Right-hand dominant * Must be able to sign an informed consent * Must be literate Exclusion Criteria: * Other neurological movement disorders diagnoses including other types of dystonia, Parkinsonism, or essential tremor * History of seizure disorder * Concomitant medications are known to decrease seizure threshold * Illicit drug use * No TMS therapy for another indication within one month of this research study * Botulinum toxin injections within 3months of the research study * Medications used for symptom treatment of dystonia including anticholinergic, benzodiazepines, and muscle relaxants among others within one month of the study * No physical or occupational therapy of the hand within one month of the study * Any contraindications to MRI or TMS
Where this trial is running
Durham, North Carolina
- Duke University Health System — Durham, North Carolina, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Noreen Bukhari-Parlakturk, MD PhD — Duke Health
- Study coordinator: Noreen Bukhari-Parlakturk, MD PhD
- Email: movdisres@dm.duke.edu
- Phone: (919) 668-2879
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.