NCT03233399 · NYU Langone Health
Modulating Movement Intention Via Cortical Stimulation
What this study is about
The purpose of this protocol is to learn about movement intention and volition. To improve such knowledge, investigators will conduct sub-studies using multiple non-invasive methodologies. These results could provide preliminary data for subsequent studies evaluating local and global effectiveness of plasticity-inducing treatments for PMD symptoms.
View original scientific description
The purpose of this protocol is to learn about movement intention and volition. To improve such knowledge, investigators will conduct sub-studies using multiple non-invasive methodologies. These results could provide preliminary data for subsequent studies evaluating local and global efficacy of plasticity-inducing treatments for PMD symptoms.
Interventions
DEVICE
Sham TMS3 stimulation
half of the subjects will receive sham stimulation first
DEVICE
rTMS of left or right angular gyrus (AG) or frontal cortex (FC)
Half of the subjects will receive active stimulation first; A subject may receive either TMS or tDCS stimulation, but not both, over the course of the sub-study.
DEVICE
Anodal tDCS of left or right AG or FC
Half of the subjects will receive active stimulation first; A subject may receive either TMS or tDCS stimulation, but not both, over the course of the sub-study.
Primary outcome measures
Changes in signal intensity measured using of tDCS
Time frame: 30 Minutes
as a result of altering cerebral perfusion in response to neurophysiologic stimulation
Changes in signal intensity measured during EEG recording
Time frame: 3 Hours
as a result of altering cerebral perfusion in response to neurophysiologic stimulation
Changes in signal intensity measured during MEG
Time frame: 3 Hours
as a result of altering cerebral perfusion in response to neurophysiologic stimulation
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
- (Healthy Controls)
- Fluent in English (Patients with PMD or PNES):
- Diagnosis of PMD/PNES confirmed by a neurologist with expertise in movement disorders.
- Per the treating neurologist, subject is unlikely to require treatment and/or dosage changes for 3-6 months following screening
Exclusion criteria
- Any history of a significant neurological disorder, which may interfere with the interpretation of study data, as determined by the PI
- Chronic or progressive medical condition
- Any history of traumatic brain injury or significant head trauma
- Currently meets criteria for substance abuse or dependence
- History of any psychotic disorder or other psychiatric condition which may interfere with data interpretation
- Metal or devices in the head, including neurostimulators or metal foreign bodies
- Any other implanted metal device, including pacemaker, spinal cord stimulator, VNS.
- Any other ferromagnetic substance in the body that may increase study risk (including dental prosthetics, etc.).
- Taking tricyclic antidepressant or antiepileptic medications or CNS active drugs under "strong potential hazard" list in Rossi et al., 2009
- Current diagnosis of any inflammatory or autoimmune disorder within last 6 months PMD and PNES Patients
- Any history of traumatic brain injury or significant head trauma
- Diagnosis of organic seizure disorder, including febrile seizures and tonic-clonic seizures;
- Neurological disorder other than PMD and PNES including stroke, fainting spells or syncope of unknown cause(s);
- Major or unstable medical illness, especially any current diagnosis of inflammatory or autoimmune disorders within last 6 months
- Metal or devices in the head, including neurostimulators or metal foreign bodies
- Taking tricyclic antidepressant medications or CNS active drugs under "strong potential hazard" list in Rossi et al., 2009;
- Diagnosis of dementia, or Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) ≤24;
- Recurrent visual hallucinations, within the past 6 months;
- History of significant uncontrollable movements of the head;
- Any clinically significant abnormality on vital signs
Where
- New York, New York
Related conditions & keywords
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 Nov 28, 2025 · Source of record for eligibility and locations