Funding News - Persons with Focal Hand Dystonia Sought for Study

Scientists at NINDS are seeking persons with focal hand dystonia (writer’s cramp) to participate in a research study on the effect of non-invasive electrical stimulation—called transcranial electrical polarization or TEP—on the symptoms of the disorder. 

In the study, TEP (or mock-TEP) stimulation will be delivered to the area of the brain that controls hand movements during three outpatient sessions—each lasting 1-2 hours over a one-week period.  Participants must not have received botulinum toxin within 10 weeks of starting the study, and must refrain from alcoholic beverages for 24 hours prior to study participation.

Eligible persons must have focal hand dystonia or writer’s cramp and be 18 years or older.  Persons who have any serious medical, surgical, neurological, or psychiatric conditions, or who have a history of epilepsy or use of medications that could increase the risk of seizure, may not be eligible.  Persons with secondary dystonia, a pacemaker, implanted medical pump, metal plate or metal object in the skull or eye (anything other than dental appliances or fillings), or who are pregnant, also may be ineligible. 

The study will take place at the NIH Clinical Center in Bethesda, MD.  There is no cost for participation.  Travel costs may be reimbursed.

For more information, contact Elaine Considine, RN, at 301-435-8518.  Please refer to study number 05-N-0122.