Effects of electrical stimulation on diaphragm function

Effects of Transcutaneous Electrical Phrenic Nerve Stimulation and Transcutaneous Electrical Diaphragmatic Stimulation: a Randomized Controlled Crossover Trial

Not applicable Interventional Hospital Sirio-Libanes · NCT06339632

This study is testing if two types of electrical stimulation can improve diaphragm function in healthy adults aged 18 to 60.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment12 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 60 Years
SexAll
SponsorHospital Sirio-Libanes Academic / other
Locations1 site (São Paulo, São Paulo)
Trial IDNCT06339632 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study evaluates the efficacy of transcutaneous electrical phrenic nerve stimulation (TEPNS) and transcutaneous electrical diaphragm stimulation (TEDS) in healthy adults. Participants aged 18 to 60 with a normal BMI will undergo a crossover design where they will receive both TEPNS and TEDS interventions. The diaphragm's muscle characteristics will be assessed using ultrasound, and the study will also gather data on the feasibility, safety, and discomfort associated with these stimulation techniques. The trial is conducted at two hospitals in a single-blind format.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy adults aged 18 to 60 with a normal BMI and no history of respiratory diseases.

Not a fit: Patients with pre-existing cardiopulmonary diseases or those with implanted electrical devices will not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could enhance diaphragm function and improve respiratory therapies.

How similar studies have performed: While the approach is innovative, similar studies have shown promise in using electrical stimulation for muscle function enhancement.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age between 18 and 60 years;
* Normal pulmonary function test, without alterations, assessed through spirometry;
* Body Mass Index (BMI) between 18.5 and 24.9 kg/m2.

Exclusion Criteria:

* Smokers or former smokers;
* Individuals with previously known cardiopulmonary diseases (restrictive lung diseases, chronic obstructive pulmonary disease - COPD, asthma, cystic fibrosis, among other pathologies);
* Presence of implanted electrical devices (pacemaker, implantable cardioverter-defibrillator, among others);
* Individuals who have contraindications to undergo evaluation and/or application of transcutaneous electrical stimulation of the diaphragm muscle, such as: altered sensitivity, wounds at the site of application, deformities, among other conditions.

Where this trial is running

São Paulo, São Paulo

Study contacts

How to participate

  1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
  2. Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
  3. Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions DiaphragmTranscutaneous electrical nerve stimulationUltrasound
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 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.