Non-invasive spinal cord stimulation for chronic low back pain relief
Official title: Transcutaneous Spinal Cord Stimulation for Chronic Low Back Pain
Run by University of California, San Francisco · NCT05265000 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study is testing a new way to relieve chronic low back pain using a non-invasive method that sends electrical signals to the spinal cord, helping people feel better without surgery.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 21 Years to 85 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 50 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | University of California, San Francisco Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (San Francisco, California) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 1, 2022 |
| Main results expected | December 31, 2026 |
| Study ends | December 31, 2026 |
| Registry record updated | March 6, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT05265000 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Ideal candidates for this study are individuals experiencing chronic low back pain who can independently perform daily activities.
✕Probably not a fit
Patients with a Body Mass Index over 28 or those with prior spinal hardware or other neuromuscular pain may not benefit from this study.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the use of transcutaneous spinal cord stimulation (tSCS) as a non-invasive method to alleviate chronic low back pain (cLBP). The approach aims to provide pain relief without the need for surgical implantation of devices, which can carry risks of complications. By utilizing electrical stimulation on the spinal cord, the study seeks to evaluate the effectiveness of this method in reducing pain levels in patients suffering from cLBP. Participants will undergo assessments to determine the impact of tSCS on their pain management.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a safer and effective alternative for managing chronic low back pain without the need for invasive procedures.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies on spinal cord stimulation have shown promising results, indicating that this approach may be effective, although the specific non-invasive method being tested is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Low back pain * Able to get in and out of chair unassisted * No changes in medication within 2 weeks of study enrollment * Stable dose of their medications within 2 weeks of study enrollment Exclusion Criteria: * Body Mass Index (BMI) \> 28 * Hardware in the spine from prior surgeries * Presence of epidural stimulation leads * Presence of any additional neuromuscular pain unrelated to spinal condition * Intolerance to any form of electrical stimulation, such as neuromuscular stimulation in the past * Lack of perceived endurance to go through multiple experimental assessments in one day/complete the study which may take up to 3 hours * Changes in medications within 2 weeks of study enrollment * Moderate/severe depression (Beck Depression Inventory score \> 20)
Where it's running
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San Francisco VA Medical Center
San Francisco, California, United States Recruiting
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Anastasia Keller, PhD — University of California, San Francisco
- Study coordinator: Anastasia Keller
- Email: anastasia.keller@ucsf.edu
- Phone: 628-206-3734
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How to take part
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
- Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.