Exploring a new method to relieve chronic pain using ear stimulation
Understanding the Mechanistic, Neurophysiological, and Antinociceptive Effects of Transcutaneous Auricular Neurostimulation for Treatment of Chronic Pain
This study is exploring a gentle technique called transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN) to help people with chronic pain who want to cut back on opioids, aiming to find out how it can relieve pain and make the process easier for them.
Quick facts
| Grant type | NIH-funded research |
|---|---|
| Study type | NIH-funded research |
| Funding institution | University of Texas Med Br Galveston NIH-funded |
| Lab location | 1 site (Galveston, United States) |
| Project ID | NIH-10900731 on NIH RePORTER |
What this research studies
This research investigates the use of transcutaneous auricular neurostimulation (tAN) to help patients with chronic pain, particularly those looking to reduce their reliance on opioids. The study aims to understand how this non-invasive technique works on the nervous system to provide pain relief and ease withdrawal symptoms from opioids. By examining the neurophysiological mechanisms involved, the researchers hope to optimize treatment parameters for better patient outcomes. Patients participating in this research may receive personalized care based on their specific pain management needs.
Who could benefit from this research
Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are adults over 21 years old who are experiencing chronic pain and are looking to taper off opioid medications.
Not a fit: Patients who are not experiencing chronic pain or who are not on opioid therapy may not benefit from this research.
Why it matters
Potential benefit: If successful, this research could provide a safer alternative for chronic pain management, reducing the need for opioid medications.
How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promise in using neuromodulation techniques for pain management, indicating potential success for this approach.
Where this research is happening
Galveston, United States
- University of Texas Med Br Galveston — Galveston, United States (Active)
Researchers
- Principal investigator: Wilkes, Denise — University of Texas Med Br Galveston
- Study coordinator: Wilkes, Denise
About this research
- This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
- Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
- For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.