Actively Recruiting
Clinical Application Observation: Evaluation of Phantom Limb Pain After 3 Weeks of Use of a Feedback System Using Vibration (Suralis, Manufacturer: Saphenus)
Led by Median · Updated on 2026-01-07
20
Participants Needed
1
Research Sites
N/A
Total Duration
On this page
AI-Summary
What this Trial Is About
This research aims to evaluate whether the Suralis vibration-based feedback device can reduce phantom limb pain in people with lower-leg amputations. The study focuses on individuals with unilateral major lower-limb amputation who experience persistent phantom pain. It is an observational, prospective pilot study designed to explore the short-term effects of this device on pain intensity, walking ability, and quality of life without using a control group or randomization. Participants will use the Suralis system, which includes a sensorized insole with pressure sensors and a vibrating thigh cuff, for three weeks. The device provides real-time sensory feedback calibrated individually through a smartphone app to match each user's gait and sensation. The study includes a three-week baseline period, three weeks of active device use, and a three-week follow-up phase to assess lasting effects. During the study, participants will report daily pain levels using a visual analogue scale and complete functional tests like the Timed Up-and-Go and 6-Minute Walk Test at the study center. Questionnaires on pain and quality of life will also be administered. Device usage is monitored via Bluetooth, and no additional treatments are given. The research team will analyze changes in pain and function over the study period, with participation lasting a total of nine weeks including baseline and follow-up.
CONDITIONS
Brief Title
Clinical Application Observation on the Evaluation of Phantom Limb Pain With the Suralis System
Who Can Participate
Eligibility Criteria
You may qualify if you...
- Unilateral major lower-limb amputation (transtibial or transfemoral)
- Persistent phantom limb pain with daily intensity of 3 or higher on the Visual Analog Scale during baseline
- Regular daily use of a prosthetic limb for at least 4 hours
- Adequate German language skills to understand and complete questionnaires and procedures
- Ability to provide informed consent
You will not qualify if you...
- Unstable wound or skin condition at the residual limb
- Inconsistent prosthetic use (less than daily or under 4 hours per day)
- Poorly fitting or non-functional prosthesis as determined by the study team
- Inability to provide informed consent due to cognitive impairment or severe psychiatric illness
- Insufficient German language skills to reliably complete assessments
AI-Screening
AI-Powered Screening
Complete this quick 3-step screening to check your eligibility
Your Study Journey
Duration - 2 to 4 weeks
Participants are screened for eligibility to participate in the trial.
1 screening and enrollment visit (in-person)
Duration - 3 weeks
Participants use the Suralis vibrotactile feedback system daily during ambulation for 3 weeks. The device is individually calibrated to provide real-time sensory feedback aimed at reducing phantom limb pain and improving gait stability.
3 visits at the study center for assessments during the treatment period
Duration - 3 weeks
Participants are monitored for 3 weeks after stopping device use to assess the sustainability of effects on phantom limb pain and gait.
1 follow-up visit at the study center
Trial Site Locations
Total: 1 location
1
MEDIAN Rehab Center Wiesbaden Sonnenberg
Wiesbaden, Hesse, Germany, 65191
Actively Recruiting
Research Team
J
Johannes Schroeter, Dr. med.
N
Natascha Raisig, M. Sc.
How is the study designed?
Study Type
INTERVENTIONAL
Masking
NONE
Allocation
NA
Model
SINGLE_GROUP
Primary Purpose
TREATMENT
Number of Arms
1
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