Neuromodulation effects on laryngeal dystonia

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study investigates the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on individuals diagnosed with laryngeal dystonia, a condition that severely impacts voice quality and quality of life. The research aims to understand the cortical excitability and inhibition of laryngeal muscles, which may provide insights into the pathophysiology of the disorder. By comparing brain activity patterns in patients with laryngeal dystonia to those with limb dystonia, the study seeks to identify potential novel interventions for this challenging condition. Participants will receive either active rTMS or sham treatment to evaluate the efficacy of this approach.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* Age range is 21-85 years
* Diagnosis of Laryngeal Dystonia (LD)
* Subject is able to give informed consent
* Symptoms at worst severity if receiving botulinum toxin injections
* Subject has signed the consent form

Exclusion Criteria:

* Other forms of dystonia
* Vocal fold pathology or paralysis
* Essential tremor
* Laryngeal cancer or other neurologic conditions with medications affecting the central nervous system
* History of laryngeal surgery
* Adults lacking the ability to consent or complete the assessments and intervention
* Seizure in the last 2 years
* Contraindications to rTMS

Where it's running

• Teresa J Kimberley
  Boston, Massachusetts, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Teresa J Kimberley, PhD,PT — MGH Institute of Health Professions
• Study coordinator: Caitlin Koehler, Lab Manager
• Email: brainrecoverylab@mghihp.edu
• Phone: 617-643-6564

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

• How gentle vibration to the throat affects brain activity in people with laryngeal dystonia

  This study will test whether a short session of noninvasive vibro-tactile stimulation to the larynx can improve voice symptoms and alter brain network activity in adults with laryngeal dystonia.

  Recruiting University of Minnesota · Minneapolis, Minnesota · NCT07443891

• Transcranial direct current stimulation for laryngeal dystonia

  This trial will try transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in people with laryngeal dystonia to see if it improves voice control.

  Recruiting Yale University · New Haven, Connecticut · NCT06830174

• Deep Brain Stimulation for treating laryngeal dystonia

  This study is testing if Deep Brain Stimulation can help people with Adductor Laryngeal Dystonia improve their vocal function.

  Recruiting Indiana University · Indianapolis, Indiana · NCT05506085

• Examining brain function in laryngeal dystonia and voice tremor

  This study is testing how brain function differs in people with laryngeal dystonia and voice tremor compared to healthy individuals to better understand these voice disorders.

  Recruiting Early Phase 1 Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · Boston, Massachusetts · NCT05216770

• Evaluating voice disorders like laryngeal dystonia and voice tremor

  This study is testing new ways to tell the difference between laryngeal dystonia and voice tremor to help people get the right treatment for their voice disorders.

  Recruiting Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · Boston, Massachusetts · NCT05150106

• Deep Brain Stimulation for Voice Disorders in Dystonia and Tremor

  This study is testing if deep brain stimulation can improve voice problems in people with laryngeal dystonia and essential tremor.

  Recruiting Massachusetts Eye and Ear Infirmary · Boston, Massachusetts · NCT05150093

How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.