Using neurostimulation to help older adults with chronic pain return to work
Using Peripheral Neurostimulation to Improve Work Rehabilitation
This study is trying out a new way to help older adults with chronic pain get back to work by using exercises and a type of nerve stimulation to see if it makes a difference.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 55 Years and up |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Université de Sherbrooke Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Sherbrooke, Quebec) |
| Trial ID | NCT05316623 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This pilot study aims to explore the feasibility and effects of a telerehabilitation intervention that combines therapeutic exercises with real or placebo TENS (transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation) for individuals aged 55 and over who are off work due to musculoskeletal injuries. The study will assess various feasibility indicators such as recruitment rates and adherence, as well as clinical measures including kinesiophobia and pain during exercise. By documenting these outcomes, the research seeks to determine the appropriateness of conducting a larger-scale study focused on enhancing work rehabilitation for older adults experiencing chronic pain.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this study are individuals aged 55 and older who are completely off work due to a musculoskeletal injury and are experiencing mild to moderate pain during movements.
Not a fit: Patients with cognitive deficiencies, those wearing cardiac devices, or individuals diagnosed with cancer are unlikely to benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this intervention could significantly improve the ability of older adults with chronic pain to engage in work rehabilitation and return to the workforce.
How similar studies have performed: While the specific combination of telerehabilitation and TENS in this context is novel, similar studies have shown promise in using neurostimulation for pain management and rehabilitation.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Being 55 years of age or older * Being off work completely due to a musculoskeletal injury * Starting a physical rehabilitation program * Being in employment * Experiencing pain of mild intensity (score of 1-3 points on a numerical scale of 0-10 points) to moderate intensity (score of 4-6 points) during movements/exercises * Being comfortable enough with technology to participate in video conferences, respond to emails or text messages * Having stable medication and lifestyle habits * Speaking French Exclusion Criteria: * Having a cognitive deficiency * Wearing a cardiac defibrillator or pacemaker * Being diagnosed with cancer * Having already experimented with TENS
Where this trial is running
Sherbrooke, Quebec
- Centre de recherche sur le vieillissement (CdRV) — Sherbrooke, Quebec, Canada (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Guillaume Léonard, PhD — Université de Sherbrooke
- Study coordinator: Marie-Philippe Harvey, M. Sc.
- Email: Marie.Philippe.Harvey@USherbrooke.ca
- Phone: 819-780-2220
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.