At a glance
ClinicalIndex Comparison RecordStandardized by ClinicalIndex from the ClinicalTrials.gov record · verify against the source.
Neuromodulation of Placebo and Nocebo Effects
In Brief
A clinical study evaluating transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS), Lidocaine cream, and 2 other interventions for Pain. Completed, enrolled 103 participants across 1 site.
Detailed Summary
The aim of this study is to use a brain stimulation tool called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) to investigate the analgesic (reducing sensitivity to pain) effects of lidocaine cream and the hyperalgesic (increasing sensitivity to pain) effects of capsaicin cream using a neutral cream as a control. tDCS stimulation has been shown to temporarily influence the way the stimulated part of the brain functions. With this method, the involvement of specific parts of the brain can be investigated in the working of the brain as a whole.
Study Details
Timeline
Interventions
tCDS safely applies a weak electrical current to your scalp using two sponge electrodes that look like flat circular pads. The pads will be held in place on your head with a neoprene cap. The pads will be attached to a generator that will send a weak stimulus to your scalp. This current influences the way that your brain cells work. When the stimulus starts, you might feel a tingling sensation underneath the electrode pads. That sensation is not painful and goes away in seconds.
Lidocaine cream will be applied on the arm to reduce pain sensitivity (analgesia).
Capsaicin cream will be applied on the arm to increase pain sensitivity (hyperalgesia).
A neutral cream will be applied on the arm as a control.