Using augmented reality training to relieve chronic neck pain

Augmented Reality Sensorimotor Training to Treat Chronic Neck Pain Assessed Through Corticomuscular Coherence

Not applicable Interventional McMaster University · NCT05880511

This study is testing if using augmented reality training can help people with chronic neck pain feel better, and whether adding a brain stimulation technique first makes it work even better.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages40 Years to 80 Years
SexAll
SponsorMcMaster University Academic / other
Locations2 sites (Hamilton, Ontario and 1 other locations)
Trial IDNCT05880511 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This research investigates the effects of 2-4 weeks of augmented reality sensorimotor training on patients suffering from chronic neck pain. The study also explores whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) administered before the training enhances its effectiveness. A variety of questionnaires, functional assessments, and electroencephalography markers will be utilized to evaluate changes in pain symptoms following the training. The feasibility of the study procedures will be assessed with a small group of 40 patients before a larger study is conducted.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals diagnosed with chronic neck pain.

Not a fit: Patients with a history of moderate to severe chronic pain in other body areas or contraindications to transcranial magnetic stimulation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide significant pain relief and improve the quality of life for patients with chronic neck pain.

How similar studies have performed: While the use of virtual reality for pain management has shown promise, this specific combination of augmented reality training and rTMS is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* A diagnosis of chronic neck pain

Exclusion Criteria:

* A known history of moderate to severe chronic pain in other parts of the body
* Contraindications to transcranial magnetic stimulation,
* Known psychological diagnosis affecting comprehension
* Inability to participate in the study

Where this trial is running

Hamilton, Ontario and 1 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 Chronic Neck Pain
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.