NCT07389694 · Kansas State University
Using Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation to Treat Stuttering
What this study is about
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if repeated transcranial magnetic stimuli (rTMS) can treat stuttering in adults.
View original scientific description
The goal of this clinical trial is to learn if repeated transcranial magnetic stimuli (rTMS) can treat stuttering in adults.
Interventions
DEVICE
Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation
This study uses Transcranial Magnetic Stimulation (TMS) applied to specific speech and motor areas of the brain to stimulate cortical areas that experience reduced activations during left-hemisphere dominant tasks in people who stutter.
Primary outcome measures
Changes in functional connectivity with resting-state electroencephalography (rs-EEG)
Time frame: Baseline, immediately post-treatment, and one week after post-treatment.
A seed-based functional connectivity analysis will be carried out between the two stimulated brain areas. To assess the changes in effective connectivity, the investigators will compare the seed-based connectivity values across sessions.
Changes in behavioral measures of stuttering and phonological processing.
Time frame: Baseline, immediately post-treatment, and one week after post-treatment.
To assess functional changes as a result of rTMS treatment, comparison of eye tracking measurements of duration, dwell time, and number of fixations of eye movements while completing speech and language-based tasks are compared across sessions.
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
- Age from 18 to 65 years
- Self-identifies as a person who currently stutters
- Right-handed or left-handed
- Normal hearing and (corrected) vision
- Able to understand and give informed consent
- Monolingual English speaker
Exclusion criteria
- Cardiac pacemaker or pacemaker wires; neurostimulators; implanted pumps
- Metal in the body (rods, plates, screws, shrapnel, dentures, IUD) or metallic particles in the eye
- Facial tattoos
- Not having medical insurance
- Surgical clips in the head or previous neurosurgery
- Any magnetic particles in the body
- Cochlear implants
- Prosthetic heart valves
- Epilepsy or any other type of seizure history
- History of significant head trauma (i.e., extended loss of consciousness, neurological sequelae)
- Known structural brain lesions
- Pre-existing speech, language, or neurological disorder (except for stuttering)
- Significant other disease (heart disease, malignant tumors, mental disorders)
- Significant claustrophobia; Ménière's disease
- Women who are trying to get pregnant and sexually active women (of reproductive age) not on a reliable contraceptive
- Pregnancy, breastfeeding
- Medications increasing the risk for seizures
- Non-prescribed drug use
- Use of recreational drugs such as medical marijuana
- Failure to perform the behavioral tasks or neuropsychological evaluation tests
Where
- Manhattan, Kansas
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 Feb 6, 2026 · Source of record for eligibility and locations