Effects of motor imagery on pain and itch perception
Investigation of the Neurophysiological and Psychological Aspects of Itch
This study tests if imagining movements can help reduce pain and itch sensations in people experiencing these feelings.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Aalborg University Academic / other |
| Locations | 2 sites (Gistrup and 1 other locations) |
| Trial ID | NCT06503523 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This project investigates how performing a motor imagery task influences cortical excitability during acute muscle pain and itch induced by different stimuli. The study aims to determine if motor imagery can mitigate the changes in cortical excitability associated with these sensations, which have overlapping neurophysiological mechanisms. Participants will undergo experimental pain and itch models while their cortical responses are measured using transcranial magnetic stimulation. The findings could enhance our understanding of pain and itch management.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are healthy men and women aged 18-60 who can speak and understand English.
Not a fit: Patients with a history of neurological, immunological, musculoskeletal, cardiac, or psychiatric disorders may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide new insights into non-pharmacological interventions for managing pain and itch.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that motor imagery can positively influence pain perception, but its effects on itch are less understood, making this approach somewhat novel.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Healthy men and women * 18-60 years * Speak and understand English Exclusion Criteria: * Pregnancy or lactation * Drug addiction defined as any use of cannabis, opioids, or other addictive drugs * Previous or current history of neurological (e.g. neuropathy), immunological (e.g. asthma, immune deficiencies, arthritis), musculoskeletal (e.g. muscular pain in the upper extremities,), cardiac disorder (e.g., heart stroke), or psychiatric diagnoses (e.g. depression) that may affect the results * Current use of medications that may affect the trial, such as antihistamines, antipsychotics, and painkillers, as well as systemic or topical steroids * Skin diseases (e.g., atopic dermatitis, pruritus nodularis, eczema, psoriasis) * Moles, scars, or tattoos in the area to be treated or tested. * Consumption of alcohol or painkillers 24 hours before the study days and between these * Acute or chronic pain * Unable to pass the "Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Adult Safety Screen" (subproject 1 and 2) * Contraindications to transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) application (history of epilepsy, metal implants in head or jaw, etc.) * Presence of implanted hearing aids or metal implants on the face, including permanent makeup or tattoos * Participation in other trials within one week of study entry (four weeks in the case of pharmaceutical trials) * Lack of ability to cooperate
Where this trial is running
Gistrup and 1 other locations
- Aalborg University — Gistrup, Denmark (Recruiting)
- Aalborg University — Gistrup, Denmark (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Silvia Lo Vecchio
- Email: slv@hst.aau.dk
- Phone: 21397785
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.