Neck Stimulation to Improve Swallowing in ALS
Part of Brain & nervous system, Digestive system, Ear, nose & throat, Hormones & metabolism clinical trials.
This trial tests whether gentle electrical stimulation of a nerve in the neck can help people with ALS swallow more easily and frequently. The treatment uses a small device placed on the skin (no surgery) to stimulate the superior laryngeal nerve, which controls swallowing.
Summary written for real people, not researchers, by Clin2.
Who can take part
- Confirmed diagnosis of ALS (using El-Escorial diagnostic criteria)
- Moderate difficulty with swallowing and speaking (ALS FRS bulbar score between 3 and 10)
- Ability to eat or drink some food or liquids by mouth (Functional Oral Intake scale score of 2 or higher)
- No feeding tube currently in place through the nose
- No pacemaker, defibrillator, heart rhythm problems, or history of seizures
- Live within 50 miles of Nova Southeastern University clinic (round trip)
Quick eligibility check
Answer a few plain-language questions, based on this study's own requirements, to get a preliminary sense of fit.
Similar studies
Other trials that look related to this one.
This trial tests whether a gentle electrical stimulation technique on neck muscles can help improve swallowing in people who recently had a stroke. It may be a good option if you are still having trouble swallowing after your stroke.
This trial tests whether transcutaneous neuromuscular electrical stimulation (a gentle electrical treatment applied to the neck) can help patients who have trouble swallowing after having a breathing tube placed in their windpipe. The goal is to improve swallowing function and help patients recover faster.
This trial tests if gently stimulating a nerve in the ear can help older adults who have trouble swallowing after a recent stroke. It aims to improve swallowing recovery during rehabilitation.
This trial tests a non-drug therapy that uses gentle electrical stimulation to help people swallow safely when swallowing is affected by certain brain or nerve conditions. If you qualify, you may receive this approach to improve swallowing and reduce choking risk.
This trial tests whether combining two types of brain stimulation (iTBS and NMES) can improve swallowing problems after a stroke. If you have had trouble swallowing for at least two weeks but no longer than six months after your stroke, you may be able to join.
This study tests whether special swallowing exercises with a visual feedback tool can help people who have trouble swallowing after a recent stroke. If you've had a stroke in the last 6 months and have trouble swallowing, this may help you regain strength.
Hear when a new Dysphagia trial opens
We’ll email you when one opens — at most once a week, no account needed, unsubscribe anytime.