Using multi-sensory stimulation to help patients with neuropathy and chronic pain
MultiSENSory Stimulation to TArgeT Sensory Loss and ChronIc Pain in NeurOpathic PatieNts
This study is testing whether a combination of virtual reality and electrical nerve stimulation can help people with neuropathy and chronic pain feel better.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 80 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | ETH Zurich Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Zurich, Canton of Zurich) |
| Trial ID | NCT05483816 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are adults aged 18-80 diagnosed with peripheral neuropathy and experiencing pain in their lower limbs.
Not a fit: Patients with significant comorbidities, cognitive deficits, or specific contraindications such as pregnancy or prior psychological diseases may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this approach could provide neuropathic patients with an effective non-drug treatment option to alleviate chronic pain and improve sensory function.
How similar studies have performed: While the combination of VR and TENS is a novel approach, similar studies exploring sensory stimulation for pain relief have shown promising results.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
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 this trial is running
Zurich, Canton of Zurich
- 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
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.