Using rTMS to treat spasticity in children with cerebral palsy
Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) for the Treatment of Spasticity in Children With Hemiplegic Cerebral Palsy/ Hemiplegia Due to Acquired Brain Injury - a Randomized Controlled Trial
NA · The University of Hong Kong · NCT06128746
This study is testing if a new treatment called rTMS can help reduce muscle stiffness and improve movement in children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 20 (estimated) |
| Ages | 7 Years to 18 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | The University of Hong Kong (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (Hong Kong, Hong Kong) |
| Trial ID | NCT06128746 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This clinical trial investigates the effects of repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) on children with hemiplegic cerebral palsy. Participants will receive 10 days of rTMS treatment followed by intensive training of the impaired limb, with assessments of spasticity and neurophysiological changes through MRI scans. The study aims to compare the outcomes of the rTMS group with a sham group to determine the efficacy of this non-invasive treatment in improving motor function. The goal is to provide a new therapeutic option for managing spasticity in this population.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are children aged 7 to 18 years diagnosed with hemiplegic cerebral palsy and exhibiting upper limb spasticity.
Not a fit: Patients with severe spasticity, uncontrollable epilepsy, or recent interventions like botulinum toxin injections may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly improve motor function and quality of life for children with cerebral palsy by reducing spasticity.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown that rTMS can improve hand function in hemiparetic patients, but limited research exists specifically on its effects on spasticity in children with cerebral palsy.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Patients aged between 7 years and 18 years * Diagnosis of cerebral palsy with hemiplegia * Upper limb spasticity ≥ 1 * IQ ≥ 50 Exclusion Criteria: * Any contra-indications to rTMS * Severe spasticity (score of 4 or more in Ashworth scale) * Uncontrollable epilepsy * History of Botulinum toxin A injection in previous 6 months * Upper limb casting in previous 6 months
Where this trial is running
Hong Kong, Hong Kong
- Li Ka Shing Faculty of Medicine — Hong Kong, Hong Kong, Hong Kong (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Winnie Wan Yee Tso, MBBS
- Email: wytso@hku.hk
- Phone: +85222554295
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.
Conditions: CP, TMS, Cerebral palsy, Spasticity