Using TMS to reduce spasticity and improve balance in people with MS
The Effect of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation on Spasticity and Balance in Patients Diagnosed With Multiple Sclerosis
This trial will test whether repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) can reduce muscle spasticity and improve balance in adults with multiple sclerosis.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 24 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 60 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Ankara Etlik City Hospital Government |
| Locations | 1 site (Ankara, Yenimahalle) |
| Trial ID | NCT07451600 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
Adults with multiple sclerosis and mild-to-moderate spasticity will receive either active rTMS applied to the motor cortex or a sham rTMS procedure, and outcomes will be compared between groups. Primary outcomes include changes in spasticity and balance, while secondary outcomes include gait pattern, joint range of motion, and pain. Clinical scales such as the Modified Ashworth Scale and EDSS will be used to quantify effects. Safety exclusions include epilepsy, metal implants, pacemakers, pregnancy, and unstable medical conditions.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Adults aged 18–60 with a confirmed MS diagnosis for more than six months, spasticity of 1–3 on the Modified Ashworth Scale in the target limb, EDSS 0–6.5, and willingness to participate are the intended candidates.
Not a fit: People with more severe disability (EDSS >6.5), contraindications to rTMS (for example, metal implants, pacemaker, epilepsy), other neurological diseases, or recent medication changes are unlikely to benefit from participation.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, rTMS could reduce muscle stiffness and improve balance, making daily activities easier for people with MS.
How similar studies have performed: Previous small trials and pilot studies have shown promising but mixed results for rTMS reducing spasticity and improving motor function in MS, so the approach has some supporting evidence but is not yet definitive.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: * Being between the ages of 18 and 60 * Having been diagnosed with multiple sclerosis for more than six months * Having spasticity levels between 1 and 3 on the Modified Ashworth Scale (MAS) in the evaluated extremity * Having an EDSS SCORE between 0 and 6.5 * Voluntarily participating in the study Exclusion Criteria: * Poor general health (heart failure, COPD, etc.) * Presence of wound lesions on the skin * Presence of metal implants in the body * Pregnancy * Presence of a severe infection * Diagnosis of malignancy * Presence of a bleeding disorder * Use of a pacemaker * Presence of cardiac rhythm disorder * Presence of neurological disease other than multiple sclerosis * History of epilepsy * History of alcohol use * Change in medication within the last 6 months * Refusal to participate in the study
Where this trial is running
Ankara, Yenimahalle
- Ankara Etlik City Hospital — Ankara, Yenimahalle, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Melike Çil, specialist
- Email: melike9671@gmail.com
- Phone: +90 0312 797 00 00
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.