Using Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation to Improve Hand Function in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
Effect of Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation on Cortical Excitability and Hand Dexterity in Multiple Sclerosis Patients
PHASE1 · Cairo University · NCT06195644
This study is testing if adding a special stimulation technique to regular physical therapy can help improve hand function in younger adults with mild multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | PHASE1 |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 20 Years to 45 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Cairo University (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Cairo) |
| Trial ID | NCT06195644 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation (GVS) on cortical excitability and hand dexterity in patients with relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis (RRMS). Participants will be randomly assigned to either a control group receiving conventional physical therapy or a study group receiving GVS in addition to the conventional program. The study aims to assess improvements in upper limb function and overall cortical excitability through a combination of aerobic training and task-oriented hand manipulation. The research will focus on patients aged 20 to 45 with mild symptoms, ensuring a targeted approach to rehabilitation.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are ambulant patients aged 20 to 45 with ataxic relapsing-remitting multiple sclerosis and mild symptoms.
Not a fit: Patients with moderate to severe cognitive, auditory, or visual impairments, or those with other neurological conditions, may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could enhance hand dexterity and cortical function in multiple sclerosis patients, improving their quality of life.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific application of GVS in this context is novel, similar studies have shown promise in enhancing motor function through vestibular stimulation techniques.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Patients with ataxic RRMS type of both genders will be recruited. The last MS relapse occurred at least 3 months prior to the study. 2. Patients' age will range from 20 to 45 years old. 3. Ambulant Patients who meet the level less than or equal to 5 on EDSS will be recruited. 4. Patients' score on Mini Mental State Examination should be \> 26. 5. Mild or no spasticity (grade 1 or 1+) according to Modified Ashworth Scale. 6. All patients must at least hold Primary stage certificate of education from one of the Egyptian educational authorities. 7. All patients can independently sign consent form Exclusion Criteria: * Patients will be excluded if they have: 1. Moderate to severe auditory or visual or cognitive impairment. 2. Coexistence of other neurological diagnoses of Central or Peripheral Nervous system (e.g. cerebrovascular stroke, vestibulopathy or polyneuropathy). 3. History of any problems that hinder conduction of aerobic training or magnetic stimulation (e.g. deep venous thrombosis, shunts and pacemakers).
Where this trial is running
Cairo
- Cairo University — Cairo, Egypt (RECRUITING)
How to participate
- Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
- Visit the official trial page on ClinicalTrials.gov for the most current contact information and recruitment status.
- Contact the listed study coordinator or principal investigator to request pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.
Conditions: Cortical Excitability, Multiple Sclerosis, Galvanic Vestibular Stimulation, Hand Dexterity, Transcranial magnetic Stimulation, Cortical excitability