Using TENS to treat chronic low back pain

Is this trial a fit for you?

A plain-English reading of the study's rules. Only the study team can confirm whether you qualify.

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.

Why it matters

Who can join: the full rules

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 it's running

• 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

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How to take part

1. Review the eligibility criteria above with your treating physician.
2. Check the official listing on ClinicalTrials.gov for the latest contact details and recruitment status.
3. Contact the study coordinator or principal investigator to ask for pre-screening. Pre-screening is free and never obligates you to enroll.