Non-invasive brain stimulation for pain reduction in patients with MS

Summary

Multiple sclerosis (MS) is a neurological disease that predominantly affects young adults. Pain can be a significant problem for a substantial proportion of people with MS. It can have a severe impact on activities of daily living and can be difficult to manage with medications.

The aim of this study is to assess the long-lasting effect of a non-invasive brain stimulation technique on pain reduction and improving the quality of life in people with MS. This treatment will be delivered with a battery-operated device which is very safe with very little side effects (e.g. mild itching sensation under one of the electrodes). If this stimulation technique is effective in reducing pain for several weeks, it may provide a new option for pain relief and pain management in people with MS who experience pain.

Progress to Date

Dr Zoghi and her team have commenced recruitment for their clinical trial investigating the effectiveness of a novel treatment called transcranial direct current stimulation (tDCS) in alleviating pain among individuals diagnosed with MS. This treatment involves applying mild electrical currents to specific regions of the brain to modulate pain perception.

Encouragingly, preliminary findings indicate a notable reduction in pain levels among participants who completed the trial. Many reported experiencing significant relief from pain, along with improvements in energy levels and motivation. These findings suggest that tDCS may offer a promising avenue for managing pain in MS patients, potentially enhancing their overall quality of life.

Dr Zoghi and her team are working towards submitting a manuscript to a scientific journal to share their findings and engage with the broader research community.

Updated 31 March 2024

Updated: 16 November, 2021

Stages of the research process

Fundamental laboratory
Research

Laboratory research that investigates scientific theories behind the possible causes, disease progression, ways to diagnose and better treat MS.

Lab to clinic timeline: 10+ years

Translational
Research

Research that builds on fundamental scientific research to develop new therapies, medical procedures or diagnostics and advances it closer to the clinic.

Lab to clinic timeline: 5+ years

Clinical Studies
and Clinical Trials

Clinical research is the culmination of fundamental and translational research turning those research discoveries into treatments and interventions for people with MS.

Lab to clinic timeline: 1-5 years