A Randomized, Double-blind, Clinical Trial of the Apollo Device in Systemic Sclerosis for the Management of fatiguE, Raynaud Phenomenon and qualiTy of Life (ASScERT-QoL)
Robyn T. Domsic, MD, MPH
Summary
The purpose of this study it to test the efficacy of a wearable device to improve symptom management and maximize qualify of life in systemic Sclerosis (SSc) patients in a randomized trial. Specifically, we will evaluate if the Apollo Neuro device may improve the two specific symptoms highest ranked by patients as affecting qualify of life (fatigue, Raynaud phenomenon) as co-primary outcomes.
Description
Systemic sclerosis (SSc) is a multisystem autoimmune disease that is characterized by progressive vasculopathy, excessive fibrosis, and immune system activation. Fatigue in SSc is common and greatly impacts quality of life: The prevalence of fatigue in SSc patients is significantly higher than the general population. Raynaud phenomenon (RP) in SSc is not only the most common SSc manifestation, affecting nearly all but is often the earliest SSc symptom. SSc-RP is the highest ranked SSc-related symptom affecting quality of life, and is a major cause of SSc-related morbidity. There are currently…
Eligibility
- Age range
- 18+ years
- Sex
- All
- Healthy volunteers
- No
Inclusion Criteria: 1. Age ≥ 18 years 2. Ability to provide written informed consent, 3. Diagnosis of SSc, as defined by the 2013 ACR/EULAR classification of SSc64 with a positive ANA 4. Baseline score ≥55 on the FACIT-Fatigue scale, 5. Presence of Raynaud phenomenon with ASRAP-SF severity of T-score ≥40, 6. Steady daily doses and any immunosuppressive medication, vasodilators or other medications used to treat pulmonary hypertension, antidepressants and anxiolytic use for 4 weeks prior to baseline 7. Currently owns and operates an iOS or Android smart phone regularly 8. Ability to comply wit…
Interventions
- DeviceApollo Neuro Device
The Apollo Neuro wearable device is an Apple Watch-sized wearable device that delivers vibration at set frequencies , termed transcutaneous vibratory stimulation, or TVS. These low volume sound waves feel like a soothing touch to the skin (TVS) and activate touch receptors. Apollo is controlled via smartphone and worn on the wrist or ankle. The Apollo is fitted with an adjustable band, made of a durable neoprene material with polyester overlays. Participants are asked to wear it daily for a minimum time period for 6 weeks. Users can choose from different modes of vibration, with some being energizing, others relaxing.
- DeviceSham device
The Apollo Neuro is an Apple Watch-sized wearable device that delivers vibration, termed transcutaneous vibratory stimulation, or TVS. The sham device is identical in appearance to the active intervention, but provides a lower frequency vibration that has no known therapeutic benefit.
Locations (4)
- DelRicht Research CenterNew Orleans, Louisiana
- University of MichiganAnn Arbor, Michigan
- University of Pittsburgh and UPMC Scleroderma CenterPittsburgh, Pennsylvania
- Vanderbilt University Medical CenterNashville, Tennessee