TMS for Cervical Dystonia

Recruiting in Palo Alto (17 mi)

Overseen byNoreen Bukhari-Parlakturk, MD PhD

Age: 18+

Sex: Any

Travel: May Be Covered

Time Reimbursement: Varies

Trial Phase: Academic

Waitlist Available

Sponsor: Duke University

No Placebo Group

Trial Summary

What is the purpose of this trial?

This study aims to investigate the impact of accelerated transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) on brain function and behavior in patients with focal cervical dystonia. Previous research demonstrated that individualized TMS improved writing behavior in focal hand dystonia after one session. In this study, we aim to expand the application on TMS on focal cervical dystonia. The current study administers four TMS sessions in a day. The research involves 9 in-person visits. The effect of TMS will be assessed using functional MRI brain scans and behavioral measurements. The risk of TMS includes seizures; the potential risk of seizures from TMS is mitigated through careful screening, adhering to safety guidelines. The study's main benefit is enhancing dystonic behavior and deepening the understanding of brain changes caused by TMS in cervical dystonia, paving the way for further advancements in clinical therapy for this condition.

Eligibility Criteria

This trial is for individuals with conditions like isolated focal hand dystonia, general dystonia, or torticollis. Participants should be able to attend 10 in-person visits and undergo MRI scans and behavior analysis. The study excludes those at risk of seizures or who don't meet the safety guidelines for TMS.

Inclusion Criteria

Must be able to sign an informed consent

I am 18 years old or older.

I have been diagnosed with focal hand dystonia by a neurologist.

See 2 more

Exclusion Criteria

I have a history of seizures.

I haven't had TMS therapy for any reason in the last month.

I haven't had hand therapy in the last month.

See 6 more

Treatment Details

Interventions

fMRI-guided Individualized TMS (Procedure)

Trial OverviewThe study tests whether four sessions of accelerated transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) can improve brain function and reduce symptoms in patients with focal hand dystonia. It includes fMRI brain scans before and after treatment to observe changes.

Participant Groups

2Treatment groups

Active Control

Placebo Group

Group I: TMS to primary somatosensory cortexActive Control1 Intervention

Participants received TMS sessions at primary somatosensory cortex

Group II: sham TMSPlacebo Group1 Intervention

Participants receive sham TMS