Shocking the bladder: TENS vs PTNS for urgency

NCT ID NCT05309993

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

Summary

This study compared two nerve stimulation treatments—TENS (a skin patch) and PTNS (a needle near the ankle)—for women with overactive bladder who had not gotten relief from lifestyle changes or medication. The goal was to see if TENS works as well as PTNS to improve quality of life. However, the trial was stopped early and only enrolled 27 participants, so the findings are limited.

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) device and percutaneous tibial nerve stimulation (PTNS) device

What this could lead to

If successful, this could show that a non-invasive TENS device works as well as the more invasive PTNS for overactive bladder, offering a simpler option.

What could go wrong

The trial was terminated early with only 27 participants, so results are very limited. It is a small, early-stage study that may not provide clear answers.

Disclaimer Read more

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.

overactive bladder Urinary Incontinence, Urge

As listed by the trial registrant

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

Contacts and locations

Locations

  • University of New Mexico

    Albuquerque, New Mexico, 87106, United States