Acupuncture reduces tremor and slowness

Trial ID
NCT06304285
Official Title
A Study Assessing the Effects of Acupuncture in Parkinson's Disease Patients With Chronic Appendicitis: a Single-center, Randomized, Double-blind Study
Goal
Acupuncture reduces tremor and slowness
Phase
NA
Status
RECRUITING
Sponsor
The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Enrollment
84 participants
Conditions
Parkinson's Disease, Chronic Appendicitis, Acupuncture
Interventions
Acupuncture treatment, Sham acupuncture treatment

Summary For Families

The goal is to see whether acupuncture can help motor symptoms like slowness, tremor, and stiffness in people with Parkinson's disease who also have CT-confirmed chronic appendicitis. Participants are randomly assigned to real acupuncture or a sham procedure, with thin needles used at traditional points to stimulate peripheral nerves and potentially modulate brain circuits and inflammatory signals that affect movement. Because acupuncture is non-drug, people can remain on stable Parkinson's medications such as levodopa while in the study, so the effect is tested alongside usual treatment. The trial is looking for adults 40 to 70 years old with Parkinsonian bradykinesia plus tremor or rigidity, confirmed chronic appendicitis, normal clotting, and no major other neurological or systemic illnesses.

Locations

  • The First Affiliated Hospital of University of Science and Technology of China, Hefei, Anhui, China

Frequently Asked Questions

What is this trial testing?
This trial is studying Acupuncture treatment. The goal is to see whether acupuncture can help motor symptoms like slowness, tremor, and stiffness in people with Parkinson's disease who also have CT-confirmed chronic appendicitis. Participants are randomly assigned to real acupuncture or a sham procedure, with thin needles used at traditional points to stimulate peripheral nerves and potentially modulate brain circuits and inflammatory signals that affect movement. Because acupuncture is non-drug, people can remain on stable Parkinson's medications such as levodopa while in the study, so the effect is tested alongside usual treatment. The trial is looking for adults 40 to 70 years old with Parkinsonian bradykinesia plus tremor or rigidity, confirmed chronic appendicitis, normal clotting, and no major other neurological or systemic illnesses.
Who can participate?
Participants must be between 40 Years and 70 Years.
Where is this trial located?
This trial is recruiting at 1 location.
Does it cost anything to join?
No. There is no cost to participate. Study-related care and treatment are provided at no charge.
How long does the trial last?
This trial is estimated to last approximately 2 years and 10 months.
Will I get the real drug or a placebo?
It depends on the trial design. Some Parkinson's trials are placebo controlled, meaning a portion of participants get an inactive comparison while others get the experimental treatment. Some use crossover designs so everyone eventually receives the active treatment at some point. Observational trials do not use a placebo at all because they are not testing a new treatment. The consent form for any specific trial spells out the design and your odds of being assigned to placebo before you enroll.
How often will I need to visit the study site?
Visit frequency varies by trial. Many Parkinson's studies require an in person visit every 4 to 12 weeks during the active treatment phase, with shorter or longer gaps depending on the design. The site coordinator can give you the full visit schedule before you sign anything, so you know what the time commitment looks like.
Can I leave the trial if I change my mind?
Yes. You can withdraw from any clinical trial at any time, for any reason, without affecting your standard medical care. Trials are voluntary by law. The team may ask if you are willing to do a brief exit visit so they can collect safety information, but you are not obligated.
Will travel or parking be reimbursed?
Many trials reimburse for parking, mileage, and sometimes lodging if the site is far from your home. Reimbursement policies vary by sponsor and site. When you contact the trial team, ask specifically what is covered and how reimbursement is processed.
Can my spouse or care partner come with me to visits?
In most cases yes, and it is often encouraged. Care partners can help with notes, questions, and getting home safely after a long visit. Some study assessments do need to happen one on one, but care partners are usually welcome for the rest of the appointment.

Related Reading

View on ClinicalTrials.gov