Research Center: University of Adelaide
Location: Clinical Research Facility Medical School, University of Adelaide, George St, Adelaide, SA, Australia 5000
Lead Researcher: Professor Paul Rolan
IRB Committee: This study has been reviewed and approved by Bellberry Limited Human Research Ethics Committee

Background

Neuropathic pain is often chronic and is described as a shooting or burning pain. It can impact the function of the nerves both at the site of the injury as well as the surrounding areas.

This study aims to assess the effectiveness of a potential treatment for chronic peripheral neuropathic pain, such as postherpetic neuralgia (PHN), or diabetic peripheral neuropathy (DPN). Researchers will use quantitative sensory testing, which is a method used to evaluate severity of nerve damage, among the affected areas.

Interested participants must be 18 years of age or older who are experiencing peripheral neuropathic pain.. Participants must attend 6 study visits at the research center for over approximately 6 weeks. 

Why Participate? 

• You may experience short-lived improvement to your neuropathic pain. 
• You may contribute valuable information that may help researchers test the effectiveness of the potential treatment.
• You may be helping others suffering from peripheral neuropathic pain
• You will be helping to advance medical research.

Your Rights

• If you decide to participate in the study and later feel that you no longer wish to be part of it, you may withdraw at any time.
• Your records relating to this study and any other information received will be kept strictly confidential, except as required by law.
• Qualified health professionals will monitor your health as it relates to the study.

Who Can Participate?

• Men and women aged 18 years old and above who suffer from chronic peripheral neuropathic pain in the arms, legs or feet.
• Able to attend 6 study visits at the research site over approximately 6 weeks.

Please note:

Due to the current situation with COVID-19 pandemic, the study team would like to point out the following:

• The research site does not treat COVID-19 patients and/or suspected COVID-19 patients.
• Please note that this is a research centre not a clinic or hospital so the space is not shared with patients seeking treatment for respiratory illness.
• The research site’s waiting area is spacious enough that participants will not be within close proximity to each other.
• You will have a private room for the study
• Hand sanitizers are available at the research site.
• The research staff adheres to strict hygienic practices as well as other safety measures to prevent the spread of COVID-19. 
• Any staff suspected to have COVID-19, or has come into contact with someone who has COVID-19, will automatically undergo a voluntary quarantine for 14 days.
• Interested participants will not be left waiting for a long period of time and will be quickly attended to. 
• The study team encourages the use of personal vehicles, taxi or rideshare services rather than public transit. All travel expenses will be reimbursed.
• The research site/institution is taking all precautionary measures to ensure the safety of the study participants.