New hope for nerve pain: brain zaps and VR mirrors join forces

NCT ID NCT04867187

Recruiting now Symptom relief Sponsor: Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint Etienne Source: ClinicalTrials.gov ↗

First seen Jun 26, 2026 · Last updated Jun 27, 2026 · Updated 1 time

Summary

This study tests whether combining brain stimulation (rTMS) with virtual reality mirror therapy can reduce hard-to-treat nerve pain. 64 adults with chronic neuropathic pain that hasn't responded to drugs will receive either real or sham mirror therapy alongside rTMS. The goal is to see if the combo provides better pain relief than rTMS alone.

What this could mean

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

Active substance: repetitive transcranial magnetic stimulation (rTMS) and virtual reality mirror therapy
What this could lead to: If it works, this could offer a new drug-free option for people with stubborn nerve pain that doesn't respond to standard medications.
What could go wrong: This is a small, early-stage study (64 people) testing a combination of two techniques. It may not show a clear benefit, and the effects might not last long-term.

This is an AI summary of the original study and may miss details. Read our disclaimer.

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Conditions

The condition(s) this trial relates to.

neuralgia

As listed by the trial registrant

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

NEUROPATHIC PAIN

Contacts and locations

Locations

Centre Hospitalier Universitaire de Saint-Etienne
RECRUITING

Saint-Etienne, 42055, France
Hôpital Neurologique Pierre Wertheimer
NOT_YET_RECRUITING

Bron, 69500, France

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