Auricular Neurostimulation for Chronic Pain

This trial investigates how a device worn on the ear might help people with chronic pain. It uses gentle electrical stimulation, known as Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation, to potentially alter how the brain perceives pain and manage withdrawal symptoms. Participants will receive either real or sham stimulation to compare effects. This trial suits those who have experienced pain for more than half the days in the last six months and are willing to reduce their opioid use by at least 10%. Participants will stay in a research center for a few days for close monitoring. As an unphased trial, this study offers a unique opportunity to explore innovative pain management solutions.

You will need to reduce your pain medication by at least 10% as part of the study. The protocol does not specify stopping other medications, but you must not be taking benzodiazepines or have a high opioid dose.

Research has shown that transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN) is generally safe. Studies have found that this technique usually causes only mild and short-lasting side effects. In trials involving individuals with knee osteoarthritis, tAN was considered a safe treatment option, potentially serving as a good alternative to more invasive procedures.

The FDA has already approved the device used for this treatment, further supporting its safety. Any side effects are typically temporary and not serious. Participants can adjust the stimulation level to maintain comfort during the procedure.

Researchers are excited about transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN) for chronic pain because it offers a novel, non-invasive approach that differs from traditional pain management methods like medications or invasive procedures. Unlike typical treatments that often come in the form of pills or injections, tAN uses a wearable device to deliver electrical stimulation to the ear, targeting specific nerves associated with pain relief. This innovative delivery method could potentially reduce side effects associated with conventional pain medications, providing a safer and more comfortable option for those suffering from chronic pain.

Research has shown that transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN) can help reduce chronic pain. This trial will compare active tAN stimulation with a sham version to evaluate its effectiveness. The method stimulates nerves in the ear and has made a noticeable difference in managing pain. It targets the vagus and trigeminal nerves, which play important roles in processing pain signals in the brain. For individuals with long-term pain conditions, tAN has effectively reduced pain symptoms. This non-invasive treatment does not involve surgery or needles, making it more appealing. Overall, previous patients reported improvements in their pain levels with tAN therapy.⁶⁷⁸⁹¹⁰