Clinical Research Directory

Whole-Body Vibration vs. Exercises for Chronic Neck Pain in Young Adults

Chronic neck pain is a prevalent issue among young adults, potentially impacting pain levels, range of motion, posture, balance, and daily functional activities. This study is designed to compare two distinct physical therapy interventions for young individuals diagnosed with chronic non-specific neck pain: Whole-Body Vibration (WBV), involving standing on a vibrating platform, and Sensorimotor Exercise (SME), which focuses on improving neck awareness, coordination, balance, and motor control. The primary objective is to determine whether one of these therapeutic approaches is more effective than the other in enhancing neck-related sensorimotor function, reducing pain intensity, and improving overall functional capacity over a 4-week intervention period. The study population consists of male and female university students aged 18 to 30 years presenting with chronic neck pain. The investigators anticipate that while both intervention protocols may yield clinical benefits, the comparative results will demonstrate which method provides superior short-term improvements in pain management and cervical function.

Transcutaneous vs Percutaneous Electrical Stimulation of the Radial Nerve

This study aims to compare the effects of two types of electrical nerve stimulation techniques-Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS)-on the sensory and motor components of the radial nerve in healthy volunteers. Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) is a non-invasive, low-cost, and widely used electrotherapy technique that applies electrical currents through surface electrodes on the skin to relieve pain. Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS) is a minimally invasive technique that delivers the electrical current through fine needles inserted near a peripheral nerve, potentially producing stronger physiological effects. In this randomized, double-blind controlled clinical trial, 120 healthy participants aged 18-60 years will be randomly assigned to one of four groups: Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS) Sham Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) (placebo) Sham Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (placebo) Each participant will receive one 20-minute stimulation session. Outcomes will include: Pressure pain threshold (PPT) (measured with an algometer), Thermal pain threshold (measured with a thermode), Maximal Isometric wrist extensor strength (measured with a hand-held dynamometer). The goal is to determine whether Percutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (PENS) produces greater changes in sensory and motor parameters than Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation (TENS) and to evaluate differences compared to placebo. This research will improve understanding of the physiological effects of these commonly used electrotherapy modalities and support evidence-based decision-making in clinical practice.