Heat pulses to nerves may loosen stiff elbows after brain injury

NCT ID NCT07712471

First seen Jul 17, 2026 · Last updated Jul 21, 2026 · Updated 2 times

Summary

This study looks at whether applying targeted heat (thermal radiofrequency) to a specific nerve in the arm can safely reduce severe elbow stiffness in adults who developed spasticity after a brain or spinal cord injury. Researchers will measure changes in elbow movement, muscle tightness, and quality of life in 64 participants. The goal is to see if this nerve treatment offers lasting relief when standard therapies have failed.

What this could mean

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

Active substance
thermal radiofrequency applied to the musculocutaneous nerve
What this could lead to
If successful, this could offer a new, minimally invasive option to reduce severe elbow spasticity and improve quality of life for people with brain or spinal cord injuries.
What could go wrong
This is an observational study with no control group, so results may be less definitive. The procedure carries risks like nerve damage or incomplete relief, and long-term effects are not yet known.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

Muscle Spasticity

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • Complexo Hospitalario Universitario A Coruña

    A Coruña, A Coruña, 15006, Spain

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