RecruitingNot ApplicableNCT06450483

Compare the Effects of Different AVNS Parameters on Neck Pain, HRV, Balance in Collegiate Atheletes

Comparing the Effects of Different Auricular Vagus Nerve Stimulation (AVNS) Parameters on Neck Pain Intensity, Heart Rate Variability (HRV), and Balance in Collegiate Athletes: A Randomized Comparative Effectiveness Design

Sponsor

University of Sharjah

Enrollment

70 participants

Start Date

May 29, 2024

Study Type

INTERVENTIONAL

Conditions

Balance Heart Rate Variability Neck Pain

Summary

This study looks at how auricular vagus nerve stimulation (AVNS) affects neck pain, heart rate variability, and balance in college athletes, additionally, if different settings of auricular vagus nerve stimulation (AVNS) affect neck pain, heart rate variability, and balance in college athletes. The participants will be split into two groups, each receiving AVNS with different settings. The study hypothesizes that vagus nerve stimulation (VNS) will reduce pain perception in college athletes. It is expected that auricular vagus nerve stimulation (AVNS) will decrease heart rate variability (HRV) in this population. Additionally, it is anticipated that college athletes undergoing AVNS will exhibit improved balance. The Investigators also believe that AVNS will decrease neck pain and enhance neck function. Finally, it is proposed that different AVNS parameters will have varying effects on pain intensity, HRV, and balance in collegiate athletes.

Eligibility

Min Age: 18 YearsMax Age: 26 Years

Inclusion Criteria5

Gender: Male and female Healthy collegiate athletes based in UAE
Age range: 18-26 years
Physical activity level: High score on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire
BMI: Within the range of 20-25
Neck pain level: Mild to moderate score on the Neck Pain Disability Index Questionnaire

Exclusion Criteria5

Recent injury: Had an injury within the last three months
Age: Over 26 years or below 18 years
Physical activity level: Scored moderate or low on the International Physical Activity Questionnaire
BMI: Above 25 or below 20
Neck pain level: Scored severe on the Neck Pain Disability Index Questionnaire

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Interventions

DEVICEAuricular vagus nerve stimulation

Auricular vagal nerve stimulation using TPN dual channel TENS will be used for the study.The device used to stimulate is a conventional TENS. The stimulation is by applying a clip electrode placed on the tragus of the left ear and a second electrode applied on the left upper trapezius of the participant which will then stimulate the vagus nerve.Auricular vagus nerve stimulation session will be applied for 15 minutes. Participant is seated and relaxed.After the first session ended; heart rate will be measured and recorded once again to see the effect of the VNS. Before the last AVNS session started; heart rate will be measured and recorded. The participants' vagus nerve is then stimulated for 15 minutes.