Three rTMS approaches to lessen insomnia-related pain after exercise-induced muscle soreness
Official title: The Effect of Different rTMS Intervention on Acute Experimental Muscular Pain in Individuals Comorbid With Insomnia: a Pilot RCT
Run by The Hong Kong Polytechnic University · NCT07827677 · Data updated 2026-11-12
This study tests whether three different rTMS approaches can reduce pain sensitivity and improve recovery in adults with insomnia after inducing muscle soreness from exercise.
Quick facts
| Study type | Interventional |
|---|---|
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Enrollment | 30 (estimated) |
| Sponsor | The Hong Kong Polytechnic University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong) |
| Status | Recruiting |
| Started | August 31, 2026 |
| Main results expected | August 31, 2027 |
| Study ends | August 31, 2027 |
| Registry record updated | September 18, 2026 |
| Trial ID | NCT07827677 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
Is this trial a fit for you?
✓Likely a good fit
Adults aged 18-60 with insomnia and without chronic musculoskeletal pain, prior lower-limb injuries, or other major exclusion conditions, who are right-handed and eligible for rTMS and pain testing.
✕Probably not a fit
Individuals with chronic pain, sleep disorders other than insomnia, epilepsy, implanted ferromagnetic devices, or contraindications to vigorous exercise may not experience benefit.
A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.
What this trial studies
In this randomized, sham-controlled trial, adults with insomnia will receive three sessions of rTMS targeting either the left primary motor cortex or the right dorsolateral prefrontal cortex, plus a sham condition, after a standardized eccentric exercise protocol. The goal is to see if neuromodulation can lessen pain sensitivity and speed recovery from acute musculoskeletal pain associated with insomnia. Participants will be adults aged 18 to 60 who are right-handed and free from chronic pain or major comorbidities. The study uses an established experimental pain model to compare neurostimulation targets. Safety and tolerability of the three interventions will also be monitored.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could offer a non-invasive option to reduce pain amplification and promote faster recovery in people whose insomnia worsens musculoskeletal pain.
How similar studies have gone: Previous studies in neuromodulation for pain and sleep-related pain have shown promise, but the specific comparison of L-M1 vs R-DLPFC vs sham in insomnia-related pain is relatively novel.
Who can join: the full rules
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Adults aged 18 to 60 years * Right hand and foot dominant Exclusion Criteria: * History of any chronic musculoskeletal pain or presence of existing pain during recruitment * Previous major injuries or surgery involving the lower limbs * Sleep disorders other than insomnia * Clinically diagnosed psychiatric disorders * Conditions that preclude safe rTMS or pain testing (e.g., severe head trauma, intracranial hypertension, implanted ferromagnetic devices, history of epilepsy, skin conditions at stimulation sites) * Contraindications to vigorous exercise identified through the physical activity readiness questionnaire (PAR-Q) * Work night shifts or rotating shift schedules * Pregnant
Where it's running
-
The Hong Kong Polytechnic University
Hong Kong, Hong Kong Recruiting
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Leo Guohui Lin
- Email: guohui-leo.lin@connect.polyu.hk
- Phone: +852 94267004
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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.