Could a ZAP to the brain ease chronic pain? new trial tests personalized stimulation
NCT ID NCT07432841
First seen Jun 27, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026
Summary
This study tests a non-invasive brain stimulation technique called HD-tDCS for people with chronic pain that hasn't improved with other treatments. 144 participants will be randomly assigned to receive either real (anodal or cathodal) or sham (placebo) stimulation over five sessions in one week. The goal is to see if personalized targeting of a brain region involved in pain processing can reduce pain and improve daily functioning, with follow-ups at 3 weeks and 3 months.
What this could mean
Our plain-language read of the trial. This is informational only — not medical advice or a prediction.
Active substance
High-Definition transcranial Direct Current Stimulation (HD-tDCS)
What this could lead to
If it works, this could offer a non-drug option to reduce chronic pain by targeting specific brain areas with personalized stimulation.
What could go wrong
This is an early-phase study with only 144 participants. The effect may be small or temporary, and not everyone may benefit. Risks include mild discomfort or skin irritation from the electrodes.
Disclaimer
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This is a summary of
the original study
.
Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
This is a summary of the original study . Summaries may miss details or leave out important information. Before applying or accepting participation, make sure you have read and understood the full study. Curemydisease.com takes no responsibility whatsoever for anything missed, misunderstood, or acted upon as a result of our summary — we know it does not capture everything.
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Conditions
The condition(s) this trial relates to.
As listed by the trial registrant
The condition terms exactly as the trial's registrant entered them.
Contacts and locations
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Locations
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Irccs Ismett
RECRUITINGPalermo, 90127, Italy
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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Istituti Clinici Scientifici Maugeri Spa Società Benefit
RECRUITINGPavia, 27100, Italy
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
Contact
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University of Milano-Bicocca
RECRUITINGMilan, 20126, Italy
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••
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University of Palermo
RECRUITINGPalermo, 90127, Italy
Contact Phone: •••-•••-•••• Email: •••••@•••••