PENS vs TENS for Hand Function in Multiple Sclerosis (NCT07546318) | Clinical Trial Compass
CompletedNot Applicable
PENS vs TENS for Hand Function in Multiple Sclerosis
Spain28 participantsStarted 2026-01-01
Plain-language summary
This randomized, parallel, single-blind clinical trial aims to compare the immediate and short-term effects of percutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (PENS) versus transcutaneous electrical nerve stimulation (TENS), applied simultaneously to the median, radial, and ulnar nerves, on hand function in people with multiple sclerosis. Participants will be assessed at baseline, immediately after the intervention, and 72 hours later. Outcomes include fine manual dexterity, gross manual dexterity, pinch strength, and tactile sensitivity.
Who can participate
Age range
18 Years – 80 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:
* Diagnosis of multiple sclerosis according to McDonald criteria.
* Age between 18 and 80 years.
* Clinically stable for at least 2 months before enrollment.
* No recent corticosteroid treatment.
* Functional ability to complete the study assessments, defined as a Nine Hole -Peg Test time of less than 300 seconds and the ability to transfer at least 1 block in the Box and Block Test.
* Ability to understand the study procedures and provide written informed consent.
Exclusion Criteria:
* Musculoskeletal disorders or injuries affecting the upper limb.
* Implanted electrical devices.
* Skin lesions or dermatological conditions at the stimulation sites.
* Cognitive impairment that interferes with understanding or performing the assessments.
* Recent relapse or any concomitant neurological condition that could interfere with study participation or evaluation.
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.
1Based on my diagnosis and history, is this trial worth exploring for me — or is there a standard treatment we should try first?
2What does this trial's phase tell us about how much is already known about its safety and benefit?
3What would taking part actually involve for me — visits, tests, time, and travel?
4What are the known and possible risks or side effects I should weigh, and how would they be monitored?
5If this trial isn't the right fit, what other options or trials would you suggest I look into?
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.
What they're measuring
1
Fine Manual Dexterity
Timeframe: Baseline, immediately post-intervention, and 72 hours post-intervention.