IRB Study Number 18-438
Status Recruiting
Location Cleveland Clinic Main Campus
Institute Digestive Disease & Surgery Institute
Description
The purpose of this research study is to test if non-needle acupuncture, known as transcutaneous electroacupuncture (TEA) can reduce the symptoms of functional heartburn. Functional heartburn is a complex condition that leads to chest and stomach burning and pain which are not relieved fully by current available medical therapies.
Inclusion Criteria
- 18 to 75 years of age
- Diagnosed with Functional Heartburn
- Participants will also have typical reflux symptoms (heartburn and/or regurgitation) more than three times per week for at least 3 months prior to enrollment in the study
- No improvement or partial improvement after receiving standard-dose proton-pump inhibitor for at least 3 months.
Exclusion Criteria
- History of thoracic, esophageal, or gastric surgery
- Severe esophageal motility disorder such as achalasia or scleroderma
- Presence of Barrett’s esophagus and duodenal or gastric ulceration on upper endoscopy
- Underlying psychiatric illness;
- Pregnancy or lactation
- Total knee replacement or above-the-knee amputation
- Unstable or uncontrolled medical disorder
- Anticipated requirement for major surgery
- Gastrointestinal tract cancer.
