Combining rTMS with virtual reality mirror therapy for neuropathic pain relief
Clinical Study of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (RTMS) Efficacy Coupled With Mirror Therapy for Neuropathic Pain Relief
This study is testing if combining a brain stimulation technique with virtual reality therapy can help people with nerve pain feel better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 64 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint Etienne Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Bron and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT04867187 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project investigates the effects of combining repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) with virtual reality mirror therapy on individuals suffering from neuropathic pain. Neuropathic pain is challenging to treat with conventional medications, and this study aims to enhance the analgesic effects of rTMS by integrating it with a novel therapeutic approach. The study will assess daily pain intensity, quality of life, and brain activity to determine the efficacy of this combined treatment. It represents a pioneering effort to explore the synergistic potential of these two non-invasive neuromodulation techniques.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals with neuropathic pain that is refractory to drug therapies and has persisted for at least six months.
Not a fit: Patients with contraindications such as ferromagnetic implants, active epilepsy, or ongoing opioid treatment may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide a new, effective treatment option for patients suffering from neuropathic pain.
How similar studies have performed: While the combination of rTMS and virtual reality mirror therapy is novel, previous studies have shown success with each technique individually in managing pain.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Clinical symptoms typical of neuropathic pain * Refractory to drug therapies * Lasting for at least 6 months, with a moderate to severe pain intensity (≥4/10 on Visual Analog Scale, VAS) and a stable pain treatment since 1month at least * Having right to health benefits Exclusion Criteria: * Ferromagnetic components and implanted microprocessors (i.e. cochlear implants) * Drug-resistant or active epilepsy, pacemaker, pregnancy, ongoing depression or personality troubles, and ongoing opioid treatment. * Any other contraindications to MRI scanner (e.g., claustrophobia, etc.).
Where this trial is running
Bron and 1 other locations
- Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer — Bron, France (Not_yet_recruiting)
- Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint-Etienne — Saint-Etienne, France (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Roland Peyron, MDPHD — Centre Hospitalier de Saint-Etienne
- Study coordinator: Roland Peyron, MDPHD
- Email: roland.peyron@univ-st-etienne.fr
- Phone: (0)477825684
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.