NCT06568198 · Massachusetts General Hospital
Modulation Effect of tACS on Chronic Low Back Pain
What this study is about
Investigating the modulation effect of tACS
View original scientific description
Investigating the modulation effect of tACS
Who can participate
This study lists these criteria on ClinicalTrials.gov. A study coordinator reviews eligibility during screening — this page does not determine whether you qualify.
Inclusion criteria
- Volunteers 18-60 years of age
- Meet the Classification Criteria of the chronic LBP (having low back pain for more than 6 months)
- At least 4/10 clinical pain on the 0-10 LBP NRS
- At least a 10th grade English-reading level; English can be a second language provided that the patients understand all questions used in the assessment measures
- Meeting the MRI / MEG / EEG screening criteria
Exclusion criteria
- Specific causes of back pain (eg, cancer, fractures, spinal stenosis, infections)
- Complicated back problems (eg, prior back surgery, medicolegal issues)
- The intent to undergo surgery during the time of involvement in the study
- History of cardiac, respiratory, or nervous system disease that, in the investigator's judgment, precludes participation in the study because of a heightened potential for adverse outcome (for example: asthma or claustrophobia)
- Presence of any contraindications to MRI scanning (for example: cardiac pacemaker, metal implants, claustrophobia, pregnancy, cannot lie still in fMRI scanner)
- Concomitant autoimmune, chronic, inflammatory, neoplastic, and psychiatric diseases
- Pregnant or lactating
- Conditions making study participation difficult (e.g., paralysis, psychoses, or other severe psychological problems as per the judgment of a study investigator during Session 1)
- Active substance abuse disorders (based on subject self-report and drug test)
- Regular use of pain medication such as opioids, nonopioid analgesics, coanalgesics, corticosteroids, or immunomodulatory agents
- Any medical conditions, such as peripheral neuropathy, that could affect the results of QST
- Current use of psychotropic medication
Where
- Charlestown, Massachusetts
Frequently asked questions
What is a clinical trial?
A clinical trial is a research study that tests new medical treatments, drugs, devices, or procedures to determine their safety and effectiveness. Trials are carefully designed and monitored to protect participants while advancing medical knowledge.
Is it safe to participate?
Clinical trials follow strict safety guidelines and ethical standards. Trials must be reviewed and approved, and participants are closely monitored by medical professionals throughout the study. You can withdraw at any time if you choose.
Will I be compensated?
Many clinical trials offer compensation for your time, travel expenses, and inconvenience. The specific compensation varies by study and will be discussed during the screening process. All study-related medical care is typically provided at no cost to participants.
Will I receive a placebo instead of treatment?
When effective treatment exists, participants typically receive either the standard treatment plus the study intervention, or the standard treatment plus placebo. You would not be denied effective care. Placebos are primarily used when no proven treatment is available, or in addition to standard care. Your trial consent form will clearly explain what treatments you may receive.
Can I leave a trial if I change my mind?
Absolutely. Participation in clinical trials is completely voluntary. You have the right to withdraw from the study at any time, for any reason, without penalty or loss of benefits to which you are otherwise entitled.
How long does a clinical trial last?
Trial duration varies widely depending on the study design and purpose. Some trials last just a few weeks, while others may continue for months or years. The study coordinator will provide specific timeline information during your screening call.
Data: ClinicalTrials.gov · synced Mar 16, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations