Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Treat Neuropathic Pain from Spinal Cord Injuries
Efficacy of Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation Therapy in Neuropathic Pain Associated With Spinal Cord Injury; Randomized Controlled Trial
This study is testing if a non-invasive brain treatment called rTMS can help reduce neuropathic pain and improve quality of life for people with spinal cord injuries.
Quick facts
| Phase | Not applicable |
|---|---|
| Study type | Interventional |
| Enrollment | 63 (estimated) |
| Ages | 18 Years to 75 Years |
| Sex | All |
| Sponsor | Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University Academic / other |
| Locations | 1 site (Afyonkarahisar) |
| Trial ID | NCT06726954 on ClinicalTrials.gov |
What this trial studies
This study investigates the effects of high-frequency Repetitive Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (rTMS) therapy on neuropathic pain, depression, quality of life, and sleep in individuals with spinal cord injuries. Participants will undergo different rTMS protocols targeting either the dorsolateral prefrontal cortex or the primary motor cortex, alongside a placebo group. Initial assessments will include various questionnaires to evaluate pain and quality of life, with follow-up assessments conducted two months after treatment. The study aims to determine the efficacy of rTMS as a non-invasive treatment option for managing neuropathic pain.
Who should consider this trial
Good fit: Ideal candidates are adults aged 18-75 with a physician-diagnosed spinal cord injury and neuropathic pain lasting at least three months.
Not a fit: Patients with severe comorbid diseases, neurodegenerative disorders, or contraindications to TMS will not benefit from this study.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this treatment could significantly reduce neuropathic pain and improve the overall quality of life for patients with spinal cord injuries.
How similar studies have performed: While there is evidence supporting the use of neuromodulation techniques for pain management, the specific application of rTMS in this context is still being explored and may represent a novel approach.
Eligibility criteria
Show full inclusion / exclusion criteria
Inclusion Criteria: Aged 18-75 years Physician-diagnosed spinal cord injury for at least 3-months Neuropathic pain for at least 3-months Pain not attributable to any other conditions Exclusion Criteria: * Having an important comorbid disease such as severe heart disease (aortic stenosis, angina, hypertrophic cardiomyopathy, uncontrolled hypertension,arrhythmia, pacemaker) * Neurodegenerative disease * Epilepsy * History of antiepileptic drug use * Cognitive dysfunction * Lower extremity peripheral nerve injury * Increased intracranial pressure or uncontrolled migraine * Infection on the skin in the application area. * Having a brain lesion or a history of drug use that will affect the seizure threshold. Any TMS-related contraindications, for example: * Pacemaker * Metallic implant * Previous seizure * Psychiatric disorders (excluding depression and anxiety) * Malignancy * Current pregnancy
Where this trial is running
Afyonkarahisar
- Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University — Afyonkarahisar, Turkey (Türkiye) (Recruiting)
Study contacts
- Principal investigator: Nuran Eyvaz, MD — Afyonkarahisar Health Sciences University
- Study coordinator: Ayse Kalender, MD
- Email: aysebuber007@gmail.com
- Phone: +905389563559
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.