NeuFit - Neurological Fitness and Education
This study will compare two methods of electrical stimulation (alternating current and direct current) as an adjunctive therapy to treating lumbosacral radiculopathy. Both types of electrical stimulation have been used in clinical practice for physical therapy, however direct current stimulation is much less common and there is less known about its impact on physical therapy outcomes. The aim of this project is to show the efficacy of a novel device, the Neubie direct current device, compared to traditional TENS unit in clinical physical therapy treatment of radiculopathy. Outcomes measured will include: pain intensity, functional status, neurological status, electrophysiological changes and patient satisfaction.
To determine the efficacy of direct current electrical stimulation (the Neubie device) on long-term symptoms and severity of lumbosacral and thoracic radiculopathy, participants will enroll in a 6-week treatment regimen at one of 16 Hands-On Physical Therapy associated clinic sites listed included in application. The first session will consist of an intake evaluation session that will include: Numeric Pain Scale for pain, Oswestry Disability Index questionnaire to assess functional disability, Straight Leg Raise Test to address nerve root irritation or compression, and Electrophysiological eva…
Inclusion Criteria: * Must show evidence of lumbo-sacral radiculopathy as determined by EMG and straight leg raise test. * Must be able to attend weekly sessions for the 6-week period of the study (no extended travel) * Must be at least 18 years old. Exclusion Criteria: * Currently pregnant * Cardiac pacemaker * Active or recent cancer * Active or recent blood clots * History of epilepsy * Open wounds * Spinal fusion surgery
Direct Current Electrical Stimulation Device that uses electrodes non-invasively on the skin to stimulate muscle fibers.
Transcutaneous Electrical Nerve Stimulation device - uses alternating current delivered through electrodes on the skin.