Using tDCS to treat orofacial pain
The Application of New Diagnostic (Thermovision) and Treatment (tDCS) Procedures in Patients With Drug-resistant Orofacial Pain
This study is testing if a new treatment called tDCS can help people with chronic orofacial pain feel better and improve their overall quality of life.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Charles University, Czech Republic Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Praha) |
| Trial ID | NCT05584384 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This trial investigates the effectiveness of transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) as a treatment for individuals suffering from chronic orofacial pain that is resistant to medication. It employs a randomized, double-blinded, sham-controlled design to assess the intensity and duration of pain relief provided by tDCS. Additionally, the study will evaluate the potential reduction in symptoms of anxiety and depression, as well as improvements in overall quality of life. Participants will undergo six sessions of stimulation over two weeks, with careful monitoring and evaluation over a 26-week period.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are individuals diagnosed with orofacial pain who have stable analgesic therapy for at least one month prior to the trial.
Not a fit: Patients who have unstable cardiovascular disorders, epilepsy, or are pregnant may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could provide a non-invasive option for patients with chronic orofacial pain who have not responded to traditional therapies.
How similar studies have performed: Other studies have shown promise in using non-invasive brain stimulation techniques like tDCS for pain management, suggesting potential for success in this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of Orofacial Pain by a pain medicine specialist according to ICOP (International classification of orofacial pain) and ICHD3 (International classification of headache disorder) * Stable analgesic therapy one month before the stimulation series Exclusion Criteria: * Changes to the analgesic therapy in 6 months following the stimulation series * Non-compliance with the follow-ups * General contraindications to tDCS - pregnancy, unstable cardiovascular disorders, epilepsy and intracranial masses
Where this trial is running
Praha
- Pain Management Centre, General University Hospital in Prague; Charles University in Prague — Praha, Czechia (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Jitka Fricova, M.D., Ph.D.
- Email: jitka.fricova@vfn.cz
- Phone: 0042022496 6370
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.