Using multi-sensory stimulation to help patients with neuropathy and chronic pain

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 investigates the effects of multi-sensory stimulation, combining virtual reality (VR) and transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), on patients suffering from neuropathy and chronic pain. The aim is to address the debilitating symptoms of sensory loss and pain that significantly impact patients' quality of life. By targeting the neurobiological mechanisms underlying these conditions, the study seeks to provide a non-pharmacological treatment option for neuropathic patients. Participants will be assessed for their eligibility based on specific inclusion and exclusion criteria, ensuring a focused approach to treatment.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

for healthy:

* Inclusion:

  * Age 18-80
  * Visual acuity\>6 on Snellen visual acuity chart
* Exclusion:

  * Pregnancy
  * Cognitive deficits (Mini Mental State Examination\<23)
  * Cyber-sickness
  * Prior or current psychological diseases
  * Pacemakers
  * Epilepsy
  * Claustrophobia
  * Other MRI contraindications
  * Unhealed fractures
  * Unhealed wounds
  * Cancerous growth in proximity to feet
  * Swollen, infected or inflamed areas on feet or skin eruptions on feet such as phlebitis, thrombophlebitis or varicose veins

for patients:

* Inclusion:

  * Age 18-80
  * Visual acuity\>6 on Snellen visual acuity chart
  * Diagnosis of peripheral neuropathy
  * Pain in lower limbs\>=3 cm on VAS scale
* Exclusion:

  * Pregnancy
  * Relevant comorbidities that would affect the outcomes of the study (by judgement of physicians)
  * Ulcers
  * Cognitive deficits (Mini Mental State Examination\<23)
  * Cyber-sickness
  * Prior or current psychological diseases
  * Pacemakers
  * Epilepsy
  * Claustrophobia
  * Other MRI contraindications
  * Unhealed fractures
  * Unhealed wounds
  * Cancerous growth in proximity to feet

Where it's running

• ETH Zurich
  Zurich, Canton of Zurich, Switzerland Recruiting

Study contacts

• Principal investigator: Stanisa Raspopovic, Prof. Dr. — ETH Zurich
• Study coordinator: Stanisa Raspopovic, Prof. Dr.
• Email: stanisa.raspopovic@hest.ethz.ch
• Phone: 44 632 58 39

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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.