Using TMS to treat Complex Regional Pain Syndrome
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) for Complex Regional Pain Syndrome (CRPS)
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
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 40 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 70 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Stanford University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Redwood City, California) |
| Trial ID | NCT03137472 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
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.
Who should consider this trial
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.
Not a fit: Patients with contraindications for MRI or TMS, a history of epilepsy, or significant psychological disorders may not benefit from this study.
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 performed: 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.
Eligibility criteria
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 this trial is running
Redwood City, California
- Stanford Pain Management Center — Redwood City, California, United States (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Study coordinator: Omar Altirkawi
- Email: omar97@stanford.edu
- Phone: (650) 497-0485
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.