Heart Rate Variability (HRV) Biofeedback to Treat Ulcerative Colitis
23 participantsStarted 2026-06
Plain-language summary
This is a prospective interventional study exploring the modifiability of physiological metrics, namely Heart Rate Variability (HRV), using a 5-week standardized HRV biofeedback intervention in subjects with symptomatic ulcerative colitis. Participants will be followed for 17 weeks. The goal is the understand if modifying these markers can impact ulcerative colitis related symptoms.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 65 Years
Sex
ALL
See this in plain English?
AI-rewrites the medical criteria so a patient or caregiver can understand them. Always confirm with the trial site.
Inclusion Criteria:
* Adult subjects (18-65 years old)
* Ulcerative colitis with a symptomatic flare (SCCAI ≥3) and without inflammation (FC\<250µg/ml)
Exclusion Criteria:
* Individuals who take medications known to alter heart rate variability
* Individuals with pacemakers or other implantable devices
Questions worth asking your doctor
Bring these to your next appointment. They're a starting point for a shared conversation — not a sign you qualify or a recommendation to enrol.
1This trial uses HRV biofeedback, which is a breathing and relaxation technique, to treat ulcerative colitis — how does training my heart rate variability actually affect inflammation or symptoms in my colon, and is there solid science behind this approach?
2The trial is listed as 'not yet recruiting,' so how long might it realistically be before I could even participate, and is waiting for this study a reasonable option given where my UC is right now?
3I noticed the trial is measuring symptom severity using a scale that's actually designed for irritable bowel syndrome, not ulcerative colitis — should I be concerned about whether this study is set up to fully capture what matters most for my specific condition?
4Since this trial has no assigned phase, it sounds like it may be in very early exploratory stages — what does that mean for how much we already know about whether HRV biofeedback is safe and effective for UC patients like me?
5Would it make more sense for me to pursue standard UC treatments first, like medication or other established therapies, rather than waiting for or joining an early-stage study that hasn't started enrolling yet?
Generated to help you prepare — always confirm anything about your own eligibility and care with the study team and your doctor.
Questions for the trial coordinator
The trial coordinator is the person who runs the study day to day. These cover the practical side — logistics, costs, and what taking part would actually mean for your life. The study team confirms whether you meet the criteria; these are questions to ask, not a sign you qualify.
1What does taking part actually involve week to week — how many visits, where, and how long does each one take?
2What costs are covered by the study, and what might I have to pay for myself, including travel, parking, or time off work?
3What happens during screening, and what happens if the study team confirms I don't meet the criteria after those tests?
4Who pays for the scans, blood work, and other tests the trial requires — the study, my insurance, or me?
5How will being in the trial affect my regular care, and will my own doctor stay informed and involved?
6Can I leave the trial at any point if I change my mind, and what would happen to my care if I do?
A starting point for the conversation — always confirm anything about your own eligibility, costs, and care with the study team and your doctor.