Ear zaps may ease Parkinson's speech and movement woes

NCT ID NCT07588191

Ongoing Symptom relief Sponsor: Universidade da Coruña Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 25, 2026 · Last updated Aug 07, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study tests whether mild electrical stimulation of the ear, combined with physical and speech therapy, can improve symptoms like voice problems, swallowing, and balance in people with Parkinson's disease. 46 participants will receive either active or sham stimulation during 12 sessions over 4 weeks, with follow-up at 8 weeks. The goal is to see if this non-invasive approach can make daily life easier.

What this could mean

Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.

Active substance: transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS) of the vagus nerve in the ear
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a non-invasive way to ease speech, swallowing, and movement problems in Parkinson's disease.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage trial with only 46 people. The effects may be modest or not last, and the stimulation might not work for everyone.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

communication disorder Cough Parkinson disease Sialorrhea Tremor voice disorders Xerostomia

As listed by the trial registrant

The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.

PARKINSON DISEASE (PD) TRANSCUTANEOUS VAGAL NERVE STIMULATION (TVNS)

Contacts and locations

Locations

Association of Parkinson´s Disease Galicia- Coruña

A Coruña, 15008, Spain

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