A home device to treat menstrual pain

SoleStim Neuromodulation System, a home-use device for the treatment of dysmenorrhea

NIH-funded research Theranova, LLC · NIH-10916979

This study is testing a handy device called the SoleStim that helps relieve menstrual cramps for people who find that regular pain medications don’t work well for them, so they can feel better and manage their symptoms at home.

Quick facts

Grant typeSbir 1 grant
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionTheranova, LLC NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (San Francisco, United States)
Project IDNIH-10916979 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research investigates the SoleStim Neuromodulation System, a portable device designed for home use to alleviate the pain associated with dysmenorrhea, which is menstrual cramping without identifiable pelvic pathology. The device utilizes acupuncture-based nerve stimulation to target specific peripheral nerves, aiming to provide an effective alternative for those who do not respond well to traditional treatments like NSAIDs or hormonal contraception. By allowing patients to manage their symptoms at home, the research seeks to improve quality of life and reduce the economic burden caused by missed work or school due to severe menstrual pain.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals experiencing severe menstrual pain that has not responded to conventional treatments.

Not a fit: Patients who do not experience dysmenorrhea or have other underlying pelvic pathologies may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safe and effective home treatment option for individuals suffering from dysmenorrhea.

How similar studies have performed: Previous clinical studies have shown that acupuncture-based nerve stimulation can effectively reduce dysmenorrhea symptoms, indicating a promising approach.

Where this research is happening

San Francisco, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Last reviewed 2026-06-14 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.