Creating a device to use focused ultrasound for pain relief without injections

Development of A Focused Ultrasound Device for Noninvasive, Peripheral Nerve Blockade to Manage Acute Pain

NIH-funded research Stanford University · NIH-10740796

This study is testing a new, noninvasive device that uses focused ultrasound to help block pain signals for people dealing with moderate to severe acute pain, offering a safer alternative to traditional pain relief methods like opioids and injections.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionStanford University NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Stanford, United States)
Project IDNIH-10740796 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research focuses on developing a noninvasive device that uses focused ultrasound to block pain signals in peripheral nerves, offering a new way to manage acute pain. Traditional methods, such as opioid medications and invasive nerve blocks, often fall short and can lead to serious side effects or complications. By utilizing focused ultrasound, this approach aims to provide effective pain relief without the risks associated with opioids or injections. Patients experiencing moderate to severe acute pain may benefit from this innovative technology, which seeks to improve their quality of life and reduce healthcare costs.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are patients experiencing moderate to severe acute pain who are seeking alternatives to traditional pain management methods.

Not a fit: Patients with chronic pain conditions or those who do not experience acute pain may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer and more effective method for managing acute pain, reducing reliance on opioids.

How similar studies have performed: Previous investigations have shown promise for focused ultrasound in managing acute pain, indicating potential success for this novel approach.

Where this research is happening

Stanford, 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 2026-06-13 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.