Using nerve stimulation to treat constipation in children

A Randomized Controlled Trial of Posterior Tibial Nerve Stimulation for Children With Constipation Due to Pelvic Floor Dyssynergia

Not applicable Interventional Nationwide Children's Hospital · NCT06528470

This study is testing if a new nerve stimulation treatment can help children aged 8-18 with constipation caused by pelvic floor issues feel better when other treatments haven't worked.

Quick facts

PhaseNot applicable
Study typeInterventional
Enrollment40 (estimated)
Ages8 Years to 18 Years
SexAll
SponsorNationwide Children's Hospital Academic / other
Locations1 site (Columbus, Ohio)
Trial IDNCT06528470 on ClinicalTrials.gov

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of posterior tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) in treating children aged 8-18 with constipation caused by pelvic floor dyssynergia. It is a single-center, randomized controlled pilot study comparing PTNS to sham stimulation. The research addresses a significant gap in non-invasive treatment options for children who have not responded to traditional medical therapies for constipation. The study will assess changes in anorectal function and overall symptom relief in the participants.

Who should consider this trial

Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 8-18 diagnosed with constipation due to pelvic floor dyssynergia who are about to start pelvic floor biofeedback therapy.

Not a fit: Patients who have undergone prior surgical interventions for constipation may not benefit from this study.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a non-invasive option for children suffering from constipation due to pelvic floor dyssynergia.

How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that posterior tibial nerve stimulation can be effective in adults with similar conditions, indicating potential for success in this pediatric population.

Eligibility criteria

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Patients 8-18 years of age
* Diagnosis of constipation due to pelvic floor dyssynergia
* Scheduled to start pelvic floor biofeedback therapy.

Exclusion Criteria:

- Prior surgery for constipation (colonic resection, cecostomy, Malone appendicostomy, sacral nerve stimulator implantation, etc.)

Where this trial is running

Columbus, Ohio

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 ConstipationFecal Incontinence in ChildrenPelvic Floor DyssynergiaPosterior Tibial Nerve StimulationNeuromodulationFecal IncontinenceChildren
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.