RightFit
RecruitingPhase 1

Using taVNS to Modulate Cardiovascular Function in Individuals With Neurologic Disease

Who can join

As published by the study on ClinicalTrials.gov. "Not stated" means the study hasn't said — ask the study team.

Age
18 Years to 80 Years
Sex
All sexes
Healthy volunteers
Not accepted
Compensation
Not stated

Other requirements are listed under Eligibility below. Only the study team can confirm whether you can join.

What to expect

No one can promise a trial will help you personally — that is what the research is trying to find out.

What participation involves

Not stated in the study description — ask the study team about visits and procedures.

Compensation
Not stated
  • Study-related exams and procedures are typically provided at no cost. This is how many trials work in general — confirm the details for this study with the study team.
  • Participants are monitored closely by the research team throughout the study.
  • Some participants may receive access to an investigational treatment, which is still being studied.
  • Your participation helps researchers learn whether this approach could help future patients.

About this study

In plain language

This study tests whether gentle nerve stimulation at the ear, called taVNS, can help people with Parkinson’s disease control their heart rate and blood pressure. It also looks at whether this could help support physical therapy and daily activities.

The purpose of this study is to find out whether a type of gentle nerve stimulation, called transcutaneous auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (taVNS), can help improve how the body regulates heart rate and blood pressure in people with Parkinson's Disease (PD). Problems with heart rate and blood pressure control are common and can make it harder for people to exercise or do daily activities. By using this non-invasive form of nerve stimulation and testing how it affects the body's natural responses, this study hopes to learn if taVNS could be a helpful tool to support physical therapy and improve overall function.

Compensation is read from the study's own description and may be missing — always confirm with the study team.

Eligibility

Who can join

  • You have Parkinson’s disease with no known cause.
  • Your medicines have been stable for at least 4 weeks before the study.

Who can't join

  • You take beta blockers, medicines that slow the heart rate.
  • You have ongoing, very high blood pressure while seated: 180/110 mmHg or higher.
  • You have a serious, uncontrolled uneven heartbeat.
  • You have unstable angina, which is new or worsening chest pain, or pain at rest.
  • You have congestive heart failure, meaning your heart does not pump well, or have had a heart attack.
  • You have had seizures.
  • You have severe problems with memory or thinking.
  • You are pregnant or plan to become pregnant.

Simplified for readability. The official criteria below are what the study team uses.

Official eligibility criteria

Inclusion Criteria: * Diagnosis of idiopathic PD * Stable medication for at least 4 weeks prior to the study Exclusion Criteria: * Use of beta blockers * Sustained severe hypertension (\>/= 180/110 mmHg while seated) * Significant uncontrolled cardiac arrhythmia * Unstable angina * Congestive heart failure * History of myocardial infarction * History of seizures * Severe cognitive impairment * Pregnant women or women who are planning to become pregnant

Study sites (1)

AL