Improving lung function in sickle cell disease with acupuncture-like stimulation

Pulmonary Functions in Sickle Cell Disease: Response of Adding Acu-TENS to Inspiratory Muscle Training

Not applicable Interventional Cairo University · NCT06757829

This study is testing whether combining breathing exercises with a special type of electrical stimulation can help improve lung function in people with sickle cell disease.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages20 Years to 50 Years
SexAll
SponsorCairo University Academic / other
Locations1 site (Dokki, Giza Governorate)
Trial IDNCT06757829 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of inspiratory muscle training (IMT) combined with acupuncture-like transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (AC-tens) on pulmonary function in patients with sickle cell disease. Forty participants will be divided into two groups: one receiving IMT and AC-tens, and the other receiving only IMT. Each group will undergo three sessions per week for 12 weeks, with specific training protocols designed to enhance respiratory function. The study aims to assess the efficacy of these interventions in alleviating pulmonary complications associated with sickle cell disease.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are non-obese patients diagnosed with sickle cell disease.

Not a fit: Patients with systemic, chest, renal, hepatic, or neurological diseases, as well as those experiencing vaso-occlusive crises, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could significantly improve respiratory function and quality of life for patients with sickle cell disease.

How similar studies have performed: While the combination of IMT and AC-tens is a novel approach, similar studies have shown positive outcomes with respiratory training in patients with pulmonary complications.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* sickle cell disease patients
* non obese patients

Exclusion Criteria:

* patients with any systemic or chest or renal or hepatic or neurological diseases
* women with lactation or pregnancy
* patients atacks of vasoocclusive crisis

Where this trial is running

Dokki, Giza Governorate

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 Sickle Cell Disease
Last reviewed 2026-06-09 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.