Effect of transcranial direct current electric stimulation associated with physical exercise in patients with Greater Trochanteric Pain Syndrome

• Grant number: 22/13423-6
• Support Opportunities: Regular Research Grants
• Start date: November 01, 2023
• End date: October 31, 2025
• Field of knowledge: Health Sciences - Medicine - Medical Clinics
• Principal Investigator: Jean Marcos de Souza
• Grantee: Jean Marcos de Souza
• Host Institution: Hospital de Clínicas (HC). Universidade Estadual de Campinas (UNICAMP). Campinas , SP, Brazil

Abstract

Greater trochanter pain syndrome (GTPS) is a frequent and difficult-to-treat disorder. Although resistance training aiming the hip muscles is effective, patients are often too symptomatic to begin rehabilitation. Transcranial direct current electrical stimulation (tDCS) is a safe and relatively inexpensive method with the potential to promote kinetic reeducation in patients with GTPS.Objectives:We aim to evaluate the effectiveness of tDCS combined with low-intensity resistance exercises in improving pain and functionality in patients with GTPS.Methods:This is a controlled, randomized, partially blinded clinical trial (blinded participants and open examiners) in which patients from a tertiary hospital with GTPS will undergo physical training combined with tDCS (intervention group) or the same physical training combined with sham-tDCS. The primary outcome will be pain, assessed by the VISA-G-BR scale on the thirtieth day after the intervention. Secondary outcomes will be pain, functionality and quality of life, evaluated by the HAGOS, PQAS and SF-36 scales, immediately after the intervention, 30 days and 60 days after. The VISA-G-BR and clinical examination (pain on palpation of the trochanter, measured by visual analogue scale, and time free from pain in unipedal support) will also be evaluated at all times.Data analysis:The mean/median values of the VISA-G-BR and the other tests will be compared using the student's t test or the Mann-Whitney test at different times in relation to the beginning of the protocol. The PQAS will be descriptive.Expected results:The hypothesis is be that the VISA-G-BR scale will have increased significantly after the protocol, inferring clinical improvement. It is also expected an improvement in functionality and quality of life. (AU)