Clinical trial Recruiting at 1 site Interventional Ages 18 to 70

Using TMS to treat Complex Regional Pain Syndrome

Official title: Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)

Run by Stanford University · NCT03137472 · Data updated 2026-11-12

This study is testing if Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) can help people with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome feel less pain and improve their symptoms.

Quick facts

Study typeInterventional
Ages18 Years to 70 Years
SexAll
Enrollment40 (estimated)
SponsorStanford University
Academic / other
Locations1 site (Redwood City, California)
StatusRecruiting
StartedApril 24, 2017
Main results expectedJune 29, 2028
Study endsJune 29, 2028
Registry record updatedJune 23, 2026
Trial IDNCT03137472 on ClinicalTrials.gov

Is this trial a fit for you?

Likely a good fit

Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-70 who have been diagnosed with CRPS for at least three months and meet specific pain level criteria.

Probably not a fit

Patients with contraindications for MRI or TMS, a history of epilepsy, or significant psychological disorders may not benefit from this study.

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

What this trial studies

This study aims to evaluate the effectiveness of Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) in alleviating pain and other symptoms associated with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS). Participants will be divided into two groups, with one receiving TMS treatment and the other receiving a sham treatment over two consecutive days. The study will monitor participants for two weeks to assess improvements in pain levels and overall symptom relief compared to their baseline measurements. The goal is to determine if TMS can provide significant benefits for individuals suffering from CRPS.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could offer a new, non-invasive option for managing pain in patients with Complex Regional Pain Syndrome.

How similar studies have gone: While TMS has been explored in various pain conditions, this specific application for CRPS is relatively novel and has not been extensively tested in prior studies.

Who can join: the full rules

Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria:

* Age 18-70
* Diagnosis of CRPS (complex regional pain syndrome) for at least 3 months
* Average pain level reported on Numerical Rating Scale meets entry criteria
* Ability to perform the experimental task and procedures.

Exclusion Criteria:

* MRI contraindication (metal implants or devices, claustrophobia)
* TMS Contraindication (eg metal implant or devices near the site of stimulation)
* History of epilepsy
* History of a psychological or psychiatric disorder that would interfere with study procedures, at the discretion of the researcher.
* Neurologic illness that would interfere with brain integrity
* Current medical condition or medication use that would interfere with study procedures or data integrity, at the discretion of the researcher.
* Currently pregnant or planning to become pregnant.
* On going legal action or disability claim.

Where it's running

  • Stanford Pain Management Center
    Redwood City, California, United States
    Recruiting

Study contacts

Similar studies

Other studies for the same condition or treatment. Recruiting studies are listed first.

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.
Last reviewed 2026-11-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.