Low Back Pain study: Cryo-auriculotherapy
Official title AuriculoTherapy NeuroImaging
ClinicalTrials.gov ID: NCT06825390
What this study is testing
- What it's testing
- The study wants to see how ear stimulation might change brain activity related to back pain.
- Who it's for
- Adults who have had low back pain for at least six months.
- What's involved
- Participants receive either real or fake ear‑cold treatment, then have brain scans before and 5‑7 days after the treatment.
- Time commitment
- Four visits total, with two visits before treatment and two visits after, spaced about a week apart.
Which group you join is decided by chance.
A plain-language read of the study's public ClinicalTrials.gov listing. The study team confirms the details.
Who can take part
Ages 18 and older
You may be able to join if
- Adult, at least 18 years old
- Episodes of chronic low back pain at least daily for at least 6 months, with an average pain score within the last week of 3/10.
You likely can't join if
- active lesions, skin disruptions, or neuropathy of either ear;
- recent (\<1 month) analgesic procedures or surgery;
- recent (\<1 month) start of new analgesic or psychoactive medication (including marijuana, opioids, tramadol, methadone, gabapentinoids...
- history of chronic pain in shoulder or thumb (to avoid confounding at control stimulation points);
- recent (\< 3 months) illicit drug use;
- prior substance misuse/abuse;
See the full eligibility criteria
- Adult, at least 18 years old
- Episodes of chronic low back pain at least daily for at least 6 months, with an average pain score within the last week of 3/10.
- active lesions, skin disruptions, or neuropathy of either ear;
- recent (\<1 month) analgesic procedures or surgery;
- recent (\<1 month) start of new analgesic or psychoactive medication (including marijuana, opioids, tramadol, methadone, gabapentinoids, anti-depressants, anti-epileptics, mood-stabilizers, anti-psychotics, or...
- history of chronic pain in shoulder or thumb (to avoid confounding at control stimulation points);
- recent (\< 3 months) illicit drug use;
- prior substance misuse/abuse;
- Pregnancy or active attempts at conception;
- Implanted metal or electronic device;
- severe claustrophobia
The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where it is enrolling
- Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States
Questions & answers
Do participants get paid in this trial?
This listing doesn't specify compensation. Many trials still reimburse travel or offer a stipend, so it's worth asking the study team when you connect.
Is it free to join, and do I need insurance?
Searching and applying through BridgeMD is free. In clinical trials the study-related treatment and visits are generally provided at no cost to you. You usually don't need insurance to take part, but confirm specifics with the study team.
How long does this study last?
The listing doesn't state an exact length. The study team walks you through the schedule and number of visits before you decide to enroll.
Who can join this trial?
This study is enrolling all sexes, 18 years and older. The study team makes the final eligibility decision.
Where is this trial taking place?
This study is enrolling now at Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, United States. Enter your location above to see the nearest enrolling site and check your eligibility.
Explore other conditions
BridgeMD is an information and trial-matching tool that is independent of the study sponsor. Details come from ClinicalTrials.gov. The study team decides eligibility, and your own doctor gives medical advice.