Using magnetic stimulation to treat headaches after concussions

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

What this trial studies

This study examines the long-term effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS), a non-invasive brain stimulation technique, on chronic headaches that follow mild traumatic brain injury (mTBI). The approach aims to reduce headache symptoms without the side effects associated with traditional medications. Participants will receive either active rTMS or a sham treatment to assess the effectiveness of this intervention. The study also seeks to identify biomarkers that could aid in the diagnosis and prognosis of post-concussion symptoms.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

Inclusion Criteria:

* 18 - 55 years old
* mTBI with loss of consciousness for less than 30 min, initial Glasgow Coma Scale between 13 and 15, or post-traumatic amnesia for ≤ 24 hours
* diagnosis of persistent post-traumatic headache according to the International Classification of Headache Disorders, 3rd edition (ICHD-3) criteria
* headache develops within 7 days after head trauma
* headache persists for \>=3 months after head trauma despite receiving standard care
* average persistent headache intensity is \>= 3/10 of the numerical rating scale (NRS) on \>=3days/week
* no evidence of radiculopathy or peripheral neuropathy on electromyography or clinical evaluation
* no evidence of other possible causes of headaches

Exclusion Criteria:

* history of chronic headache diagnoses such as migraine, tension, or cluster headaches prior to the incidence of mTBI
* history of other neurologic conditions with medications affecting the central nervous system
* contraindications of receiving TMS (e.g., a history of epileptic seizure and having implants like a cardiac pacemaker or intracerebral vascular clip

Where it's running

• SUNY Upstate Medical University
  Syracuse, New York, United States Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Yi-Ling Kuo, PT, PhD — State University of New York - Upstate Medical University
• Study coordinator: Yi-Ling Kuo, PT, PhD
• Email: kuoy@upstate.edu
• Phone: 3154646911

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

• Concussion recovery and support program for young adults

  This pilot randomized trial will test whether a six-session online therapy called CRISP helps 18–30-year-olds with concussion-related headaches feel and function better.

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• Improving attention in military personnel with mild traumatic brain injury using brain stimulation and cognitive training

  This study is testing a new way to help Active Duty Service Members and Veterans with mild traumatic brain injury improve their attention by combining brain stimulation with cognitive training.

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• Personalized brain stimulation for long-term symptoms after concussion

  This study will try personalized, noninvasive brain stimulation (TMS) to reduce dizziness, headaches, memory problems, and other lasting symptoms in adults aged 18–65 after a concussion.

  Recruiting Phase 2 University of California, Los Angeles · Westwood, Los Angeles, California · NCT06073886

• Brain stimulation and imaging for children with mild traumatic brain injury

  This study is testing if a type of brain stimulation can help children aged 10-15 recover better from mild traumatic brain injuries by improving their thinking and movement skills.

  Recruiting State University of New York at Buffalo · Buffalo, New York · NCT05762796

• Digital intervention for post-concussion symptoms

  This study is testing a new digital program called GAIN Lite to see if it helps adults with ongoing concussion symptoms feel better compared to regular care.

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• HBOT to see if it helps cognition and well‑being in first responders with prior brain injury

  This study tests whether 40 hyperbaric oxygen therapy sessions can improve thinking skills and post-concussion symptoms in current or former first responders with a history of brain injury.

  Recruiting Phase 2 Summit Hyperbarics and Wellness · Boise, Idaho · NCT07852728

How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.