Using TENS to treat chronic low back pain
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Chronic Low-Back Pain: A Randomized Crossover Trial
NA · University of Hartford · NCT05812885
This study is testing if a device that uses electrical signals can help people with chronic low back pain feel less pain and improve their daily activities.
Quick facts
| Phase | NA |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 34 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | University of Hartford (other) |
| Locations | 1 site (West Hartford, Connecticut) |
| Trial ID | NCT05812885 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effectiveness of Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) in alleviating chronic low back pain through a crossover design. Participants will receive three different treatments: active TENS, placebo TENS, and no treatment control, in a random order. Pain levels, central excitability, and functional outcomes will be measured using various assessment tools, including the Numeric Rating Scale and pressure pain thresholds. The goal is to determine if TENS can significantly reduce pain intensity and improve function in individuals suffering from chronic low back pain.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-60 who have experienced chronic low back pain for at least 3 months and have a minimum pain level of 3 on a 0-10 scale.
Not a fit: Patients with serious spinal disorders, neurological diseases, or those currently using opioids may not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this study could provide a non-invasive treatment option for patients suffering from chronic low back pain.
How similar studies have performed: Previous studies have shown promising results with TENS for pain management, indicating potential success for this approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * people who have experienced back pain for at least 3 months * and have reported a minimal pain level of 3 on the 0-10 Pain Numerical Rating Scale (NRS) * age from 18-60 * TENS naive or have not used TENS for 5 years. * Both men and women may participate in the study Exclusion Criteria: * Serious spinal disorders, such as fractures, tumors, or inflammatory arthritis disease * nerve root disorders confirmed by neurological tests; * neurological diseases * severe cardiorespiratory disease * pregnancy * skin infection or lesions or change in sensation at the TENS application site * cancer * cardiac pacemaker * allergy to electrodes * use of opioids.
Where this trial is running
West Hartford, Connecticut
- University of Hartford — West Hartford, Connecticut, United States (RECRUITING)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Richard E Liebano, PhD — University of Hartford
- Study coordinator: Richard E Liebano, PhD
- Email: liebano@hartford.edu
- Phone: 860.768.5181
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: Chronic Low-back Pain