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Testing a new device to detect muscle and nerve disorders

Plain-English translation of NCT01900132 on ClinicalTrials.gov ↗ · Source last updated July 2026 · Translation generated July 2026 · How we translate trials

This study doesn't follow the usual testing phases — it may be an observational study or a different type of research.

What is this trial?

Researchers are studying a new device called electrical impedance myography (EIM) that measures how electrical signals move through your muscles and nerves. This study will help determine if EIM can reliably detect and differentiate between different types of muscle and nerve disorders in both children and adults. The device is completely non-invasive and painless — it works like an ultrasound but measures electrical properties instead of sound waves.

Currently, diagnosing muscle and nerve disorders often requires multiple tests that can be uncomfortable or time-consuming. Researchers hope this new device could become a simpler, faster way to help doctors identify what type of muscle or nerve problem a patient has, and eventually track how these conditions change over time.

Do you qualify?

You likely qualify if…

you are at least 2 years old (or 7 years old if enrolling as a healthy volunteer)
you have been diagnosed with or suspected of having a muscle disorder, nerve disorder, motor neuron disease, or movement disorder
you are in generally good health (if enrolling as a healthy volunteer)
you are able to understand the study and willing to sign a consent form

You likely don't qualify if…

you have diabetes, kidney disease, or liver disease that requires medication (healthy volunteers only)
you have a history of stroke or previous spine surgery (healthy volunteers only)
you are currently taking medications that affect how muscles or nerves function (healthy volunteers only)
you work in the NIH's electromyography section or certain NINDS departments

What participation looks like

If you qualify, you will visit the research clinic to have the EIM device tested on your muscles and nerves — similar to having an ultrasound, but completely painless. Some participants will be asked to return for repeat visits so researchers can see how measurements change over time. The study may also involve comparing the EIM results to standard nerve and muscle tests you may already be having as part of your regular medical care.

Testing a new device to detect muscle and nerve disorders

What is this trial?

Do you qualify?

What participation looks like

Trial locations(1 site)