Non-invasive nerve stimulation to improve sleep in PTSD and TBI patients

Non-invasive Vagal Nerve Stimulation and Sleep

Not applicable Interventional University of Florida · NCT03170440

This study is testing two types of nerve stimulation to see if they can help veterans with PTSD and mild brain injuries sleep better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment221 (estimated)
Ages18 Years to 55 Years
SexAll
SponsorUniversity of Florida Academic / other
Locations3 sites (Gainesville, Florida and 2 other locations)
Trial IDNCT03170440 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effects of two different types of transcutaneous nerve stimulation on sleep architecture in individuals suffering from Post Traumatic Stress Disorder (PTSD) and mild Traumatic Brain Injury (TBI). Participants will undergo nerve stimulation treatments to assess improvements in sleep quality and overall well-being. The study focuses on veterans who experience sleep deprivation as a result of their conditions. By exploring non-invasive treatment options, the research seeks to provide alternative solutions for better sleep management.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are veterans with a history of PTSD, with or without mild TBI.

Not a fit: Patients with severe psychiatric illnesses unrelated to PTSD or TBI, or those with significant medical conditions affecting cognition, may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this study could lead to improved sleep quality for patients suffering from PTSD and mild TBI.

How similar studies have performed: While nerve stimulation has been explored in various contexts, this specific approach for PTSD and TBI is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* veterans with history of PTSD with and without history of mild TBI

Exclusion Criteria with:

* history of severe psychiatric illness unrelated to PTSD or TBI
* other medical conditions of severity that may impair cognition
* current illicit or prescription drug abuse
* breathing disorder requiring constant use of oxygen

Where this trial is running

Gainesville, Florida and 2 other locations

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 Post Traumatic Stress DisorderTraumatic Brain InjuryNerve stimulationsleep deprivation
Last reviewed 2026-06-13 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.